Policies for delivering more Cycling around Brighton and Hove.

The SmarterUK party intends to work towards delivering a network of separated, safer cycle lanes in Brighton and Hove by:

1. Lobby for Increased Funding: SmarterUK will advocate for increased funding from the national government’s cycling and walking investment strategies, such as the Active Travel Fund or the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS). This funding could finance the construction of separated cycle lanes in Brighton and Hove.
2. Support Cycling-Friendly Policies: SmarterUK will support and promote policies that prioritise cycling infrastructure, such as the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) and the Department for Transport’s Gear Change vision. These policies provide guidance and standards for delivering high-quality cycling infrastructure.
3. Collaborate with Local Authorities: SmarterUK will work closely with Brighton and Hove City Council to ensure that cycling infrastructure is a priority in their local transport plans and strategies. Encourage the council to adopt best practices and design standards outlined in the government’s Cycle Infrastructure Design (LTN 1/20) guidance.
4. Engage with Stakeholders and the Community
   1. Consult with Cycling Organizations: We will engage with local and national cycling organisations, such as Bricycles or Sustrans, to understand the specific needs and concerns of cyclists in Brighton and Hove. Their expertise and feedback will help shape the design and implementation of the cycle lane network.
   1. Involve the Community:  We will encourage public consultations and community engagement to gather input from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. This will help identify potential routes, address concerns, and ensure that the cycle lane network meets the needs of the local community.
   1. Collaborate with Neighbouring Authorities: Smarter UK will also work with neighbouring local authorities to ensure that the cycle lane network in Brighton and Hove connects seamlessly with the wider regional cycling infrastructure, creating a cohesive and integrated network.

• Monitor and Evaluate Progress
  • Seek Regular Updates: We will request regular updates from the local authorities and relevant agencies on the cycle lane network implementation progress, including any challenges or delays encountered. Monitoring and putting pressure on progress is essential.
  • Advocate for Monitoring and Evaluation: Encourage the use of monitoring and evaluation techniques, such as traffic counts, user surveys, and safety audits, to assess the effectiveness of the cycle lane network and identify areas for improvement.
  • Promote Success Stories: Highlight and promote successful examples of separated cycle lanes in Brighton and Hove and best practices from other cities. This can help build public support and encourage further investment in cycling infrastructure.

SmarterUK, by combining advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring efforts, will play a crucial role in delivering a network of separated, safer cycle lanes in Brighton and Hove, promoting sustainable transportation and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.