HC Deb 27 October 1997 vol 299 cc723-4W
Mrs. Dunwoody

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the actions taken by his Department since 1 May to increase provision for cyclists and increase cycle use. [12991]

Ms Glenda Jackson

We have given our endorsement to the national cycling strategy which aims to quadruple cycle use by 2012. The NCS has a common ownership, having been established by consensus involving a wide range of bodies. I have chaired two meetings of the national Cycling Forum to discuss a range of issues involved in taking the strategy forward. We are now working actively with others to implement it. The Department also provides technical advice to local authority practitioners who play a significant role in developing initiatives at a local level. In July we hosted a regional seminar aimed at traffic engineers and planners to promote the NCS. And in August we published two traffic advisory leaflets outlining results of research on cycle-related issues.

Mr. Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to develop a strategic cycle lane network throughout London; and if he will make a statement. [12897]

Ms Jackson

The Government are supporting the London Cycle Network which is a 2,500 km strategic network of routes being developed by 33 London boroughs. Approximately 30 per cent. of the network exists already. Whilst the boroughs total estimated cost is £67 million, some £45 million is sought through the transport policies and programme funding, with additional sources of funding coming from the Traffic Director for London—on red routes—the Highways Agency—on trunk roads—and the Millennium Commission as well as the boroughs themselves. Now in its third year of implementation the LCN has so far received TPP allocation of £10.55 million.