Vote Bike: Tees Valley
Context:
The Tees Valley is growing fast - and needs a modern transport system to spur it on!
Over the next ten years, the Tees Valley Combined Authority plans to create 25,000 new jobs and build 22,000 new homes. Such bold ambitions require a modern and efficient transport system. Cycling should be at the centre of any transport improvements.
The Tees Valley is an area of comparatively low car ownership. Teesside is one of sixteen areas highlighted by the EU as being in repeated breach of legal air pollution limits. And Middlesbrough has been highlighted as the local authority with the largest estimated health gain from an increase in cycling.
The Tees Valley has already made a great start by securing a £3.3m grant to increase cycling in the region. The Tees Valley needs a mayor who will build on this success and champion cycling for the whole region.
What we're calling for:
Cycling UK and the Tees Valley Cycle Campaign are asking all candidates (yes or no) whether they will support the following asks. You can see their responses - and take action to quiz them yourself - below.
- Plan a strategic Tees Valley-wide network of safe cycle routes
Produce a costed plan for a strategic and integrated network of safe cycle routes, linking residential areas, business areas and key educational facilities - Ensure developers cater for the needs of cyclists
Major developments are planned across the Tees Valley. The mayor needs to work with developers and the Tees Valley Development Corporation to make sure that cycling is considered from the outset and planned for appropriately - Actively seek funding to build your network
Create a dedicated budget for cycling and to actively seek enough funding to build the network to a high standard, with a view to spending at least £10 per person annually on cycling
Take action - click here to back our call!
What candidates have said so far:
Candidate |
TV-wide network |
Developers |
Funding |
Comments |
Ben Houchen
|
YES |
YES |
YES |
- |
Chris Foote Wood
|
YES |
YES |
YES |
As a lifelong cyclist who was a triathlete and used to race on his bike in time trials, road and track racing (now unable to run/compete due to dodgy knees, but still cycling!) you can count on me (a) to fully support your campaign (b) to take the initiatives you suggest and (c) show strong personal commitment to increasing walking and cycling to encourage personal fitness, reduce road traffic and air pollution. It's win-win-win! |
John Tennant
|
YES |
YES |
NO |
Cycling is an important pastime for many people and for differing reasons. Some do it for sport, others for leisure and some in order to get about. The fact remains that there aren't enough cycle lanes in Tees Valley or indeed enough awareness of cyclists on our roads. I would encourage Council Leaders to put safety and access for cyclists and drivers on their agendas as a way of looking into how we can make cycling both safe and attractive to residents. |
Sue Jeffrey
|
YES |
YES |
YES |
Thanks for the questions. I have answered yes to each as I strongly believe we should be doing more to inspire people to choose cycling and walking. I was really pleased that the Tees Valley received £3m in January to spend on projects to encourage more people to cycle, and walk and use public transport. If elected I would want to work with Cycling UK and other organisations to look at these suggestions as well as considering what else can be done to promote walking and cycling in the Tees Valley. |
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