Calls have been made for investment into Suffolk’s cycle path network, with opposition groups putting forward a proposal to set up a cross party group.

East Anglian Daily Times: Robert Lindsay said a comprehensive cycle path network would encourage more people to leave their cars at home Picture: SIMON PARKERRobert Lindsay said a comprehensive cycle path network would encourage more people to leave their cars at home Picture: SIMON PARKER

A motion is to be presented at Thursday’s Suffolk County Council meeting by Green councillor for Cosford Robert Lindsay, calling for a task group to be formed that will develop a costed five year plan to create a safe cycle network.

Mr Lindsay is also calling for the county council to ring-fence at least 5% of its annual transport budget for cycle routes.

Mr Lindsay said: “There is a clear pattern emerging across the country, with more and more councils becoming aware of the importance of investing in cycling infrastructure.

“As a rural county with diminishing public transport, it is vital that Suffolk County Council joins them in developing a well-planned and properly funded cycle network.”

The Liberal Democrat, Green and Independent group which put forward the motion said the 2017 election manifesto from the Conservatives had pledged a new network of cycle paths, and tied in with its ambitions of being the greenest county and Most Active County programmes.

Just £1.48 per head was spent on cycle infrastructure compared with a £4.25 national average, according to research compiled by the group.

Mr Lindsay added: “Proper investment into cycling infrastructure is also key to supporting their Most Active County and Greenest County initiatives.

“The county has done some good work encouraging cycling as a sport but many, many more people would leave their car at home if they felt they had a safe cycle route to town for work or shops.”

A Suffolk County Council spokesman said: “Suffolk County Council is currently refreshing its local transport plan which aims to encourage more people to travel sustainably.

“As part of the implementation plan, a wide range of cycling schemes have been implemented since 2011.

“In addition, when planning new infrastructure, where appropriate, we make sure that cycle facilities are incorporated as part of the design, such as the Bury Eastern Relief Road, which includes 2.5km cycle track.”