Two separate consultations are now open for new schemes in Canterbury and Herne Bay paid for by the Government’s Active Travel Fund, which was set up to encourage local authorities to improve facilities as the pandemic led to more people taking up cycling and walking more often.
The schemes aim to improve the health, wellbeing and safety of residents, as well as support the local economy. The routes will be designed to provide an attractive environment for walking and cycling.
In Canterbury, views are wanted on updated designs for a cycling route from the east of Canterbury into the city centre, following earlier feedback, as well as proposals for new and amended waiting restrictions on Longport and a new 20mph zone.
In Herne Bay, views are wanted on a new active travel scheme to promote walking and cycling between Herne Bay Railway Station and Central Parade. The scheme includes the proposed introduction of right and left-hand turn bans, one-way roads and prohibition of driving orders on the Central Parade, Dolphin Street, Mortimer Street, Pier Avenue, Richmond Street, Station Road, St Georges Terrace and Telford Street and amendments to the existing double yellow lines on Station Road.
KCC is also consulting on a 20mph zone to compliment the active travel proposals. The zone includes the following roads:
- Sea Street (from junction with Cobblers Bridge Road)
- Avenue Road
- High Street
- B2205 Canterbury Road (between Central Parade and Spenser Road)
- Spenser Road, Station Road and Fleetwood Road including all internal roads.
Drop-in events are planned to discuss both schemes the Herne Bay plans, which are to be held at Herne Bay Baptist Church on Tuesday 27 September between 12pm to 2pm and Thursday 29 September between 6pm to 8pm.
Events are also planned for the Canterbury scheme and details will be released on the dedicated website as soon as they are available.
“As we continue on our path to make Active Travel in Kent easier, we are pleased to present these proposals, so residents can share their views.”
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, David Brazier said:
"As we continue on our path to make Active Travel in Kent easier, we are pleased to present these proposals, so residents can share their views. We have committed the county to having Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 and it is only through progressing schemes such as those proposed in Canterbury and Herne Bay that we will be able to realise this ambition."
“While officers will continue to engage with the government through Active Travel England, it is important to us that we take the time to listen and hear the views of local people so we can be sure this is the best thing for residents and local businesses.”
Both consultations opened on 9 September and close on 6 October.
Visit www.kent.gov.uk/canterburyat to view the Canterbury consultation and www.kent.gov.uk/hernebayat to view the Herne Bay consultation and share your views.
ENDS.
Note for editors
For queries or requests for hard copies, email activetravel@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 41 81 81 referencing the scheme name.
For any alternative formats, email alternativeformats@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 42 15 53 (text relay service number 18001 03000 42 15 53). This number goes to an answering machine, which is monitored during office hours.
