Safe Routes to Schools
Background
East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) asked us for cycling priorities in Alton for their Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). To achieve the greatest ‘modal shift’ i.e. to replace car journeys with active travel, we chose to focus on creating a network of safe cycling paths for senior school-age children who would have achieved Bikeability Level 2.
Cycle Alton supporters cycling the schools routes with EHDC officers and Councillor Mocatta, outside Amery Hill School
Alton map showing the proposed network of cycle routes to schools and other destinations within the town
This would replace car journeys with cycling or walking twice every weekday during term time, bringing the benefits of reduced traffic congestion and pollution, and increased activity for the school children.
Challenges
There is currently no coherent network of cycle routes to make cycling a valid alternative to short car journeys. The aim was therefore to link the main residential estates in Alton to the two secondary schools and two colleges.
The cycle routes could also be used by anyone wishing to cycle to the High Street, industrial estate, railway station and leisure facilities.
Proposals
Plans were drawn up by supporters who walked and cycled the proposed routes, then created detailed reports with maps, text and photographs.
Outcome
The routes were presented to Alton Town Council (ATC) in 2022. The council agreed to recommend the proposals to Hampshire County Council (HCC) for implementation.
The plans were superseded by new government guidance on cycle infrastructure design: LTN 1/20. This work was later continued through the Local Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
Cycle Alton supporters after our Safe Routes to Schools presentation in Alton Town Hall