Stephen Williams, the Lib Dem candidate to be the West of England regional mayor, has pledged to invest in cycling facilities and infrastructure if he is elected on 4th May.
The pledges are outlined in Stephen Williams’ manifesto, which was launched last week by the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Tim Farron MP.
The manifesto includes commitments to:
- Encourage Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils to continue enhancing local cycle routes;
- Press the government to ensure that the regional mayor’s transport budget includes sufficient resource to introduce cycling improvements;
- Work with Sustrans and others to double the number of trips made by bicycle in the West of England by 2025 and uphold the target of 20% commuting trips to Bristol by 2020, with further plans to set a realistic target for Bath;
- Introduce cleaner fuel buses to reduce air pollution along the main roads, so that cyclists are exposed to fewer toxins;
- Ensure that Park and Ride sites and railway stations have secure bike parking facilities to cater for people who want to cycle from home to their nearest park and ride or station, continuing the rest of the journey by bus or train.
Speaking about his determination to invest in cycling improvements, Stephen Williams said: “In my manifesto I have set out a comprehensive package of transport policies to continue to build a people-centred, sustainable and safe travel system that helps the economy grow.
“I will definitely be seeking a greater level of investment to make cycling an option for everyone in Bath, North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
“Cycling is a sustainable and healthy way to travel. By encouraging more people to cycle and integrating cycling with public transport we can reduce congestion and air pollution.
“This election is a clear choice between me and the inexperienced, Brexit-defending Tory candidate. A vote for the Liberal Democrats is a vote for a candidate prepared to make cycling safe and enjoyable for all.”
