Bike Week Masks Sham on Cycling in Essex

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 11th Jun 2008

Another National Bike Week comes and goes and still Essex languishes with poor provision for cyclists. In Essex not a single recognisable network of routes exists anywhere in the county. There is no annual programme for cycleway network development and cycling and walking have low priority in Essex.

Cllr Keith Francis, Liberal Democrats spokesman for highways and transportation said: "Despite the recent spin from the Conservative administration that Essex is to have a cycling 'champion', shamefully, it does not recognise the contribution that increased cycling and walking activity can make towards congestion relief. Proof is given in the recently published capital budget that shows an actual decrease in funding for cycling over the next 3 years.

"It is plain that the Conservatives are blind to the value and potential that would flow from a more balanced approach to investment. Furthermore, it is clear that this administration does not understand the meaning of sustainable travel options.

"Liberal Democrats on Essex County Council will continue to campaign for realistic travel alternatives to the car whether by walking, cycling or public transport and this annual posturing on cycling should be seen for what it is - a sham and unforgivable 'spin over substance' which is the hallmark of New Conservatism."

ENDS