Ulster Unionist Assembly Member for Mid-Ulster, Sandra Overend, has welcomed the launch of the Minister for Regional Development’s draft Bicycle Strategy and encourages the public to respond.
Welcoming the announcement, Mrs Overend, who is the Assembly Private Secretary to the Regional Development Minister and a member of the All Party Group on Cycling, commented:
“Danny Kennedy MLA is committed to delivering a cycling revolution in Northern Ireland, and the publication of this draft Bicycle Strategy is the latest step in driving this forward. The Department for Regional Development’s Cycling Unit has been very active, conducting research and engaging with stakeholders in putting this strategy together.
“Recently I joined with them in assessing the challenges cyclists in the city of Belfast face on a daily basis. Some of that work has fed into this draft strategy, as has experience of cycling in rural towns, villages and countryside. The Minister is keen to improve conditions for cyclists and in doing so encourage more people to use the bicycle for everyday journeys, whether that is for business or pleasure, creating a cycling culture in Northern Ireland.
“The public can now have their say, and make a contribution to the future of cycling in Northern Ireland, ahead of the publication of the final strategy early next year, and I would encourage anyone with any interest in cycling here to play their part. You can get involved by responding to the public consultation, or by participating in one of the local consultation events, which will take place across Northern Ireland in October and November. There will also be a seminar on Thursday 16 October in Belfast entitled ‘Northern Ireland – Changing Gear’ which will be wholly dedicated to cycling in Northern Ireland.
“The draft Bicycle Strategy is available online via http://www.drdni.gov.uk/index/publications/publications-details.htm?docid=9903 or by contacting the DRD by phone on 028 9054 0179. Details of the consultation events in your area will be announced in the local press in the near future.”