Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has announced the publication of a 25 year Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland.
The Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland, spanning a 25 year horizon, has been developed to help transform Northern Ireland into a cycling society.
Danny Kennedy said: “Last year I announced a three month consultation on the draft Bicycle Strategy which offered everyone an opportunity to have a say on how we embrace the wide ranging benefits of cycling.
“My Department hosted nine consultation events to hear views and any concerns people had in relation to using the bicycle as an everyday mode of transport.
“Over 100 consultation responses were received from organisations and individuals and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their valuable comments. All responses were carefully considered and some of the feedback directly contributed to changes to the final publication.”
Following on from this DRD is currently developing a draft Belfast Bicycle Network Plan and a Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan both of which are due to be published in the autumn.
The Minister continued: “My vision in that Northern Ireland will be a community where people have the freedom and confidence to travel by bicycle for every day journeys.
“To achieve the vision for cycling we need to build a comprehensive network for the bicycle, support people who choose to travel by bicycle and promote the bicycle as a mode of transport for every day journeys.
“I want to be creative and innovative in encouraging people to use the bicycle. I consider it very important that my strategy sets out the bigger picture, outlining all the elements that need to be addressed to make Northern Ireland a cycling community that is comparable with our other European neighbours.
“Recently I launched a consultation on a number of flagship projects through Belfast city centre which are intended for completion in Spring 2016.
“I look forward to publishing my Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan and a draft Belfast Bicycle Network Plan later this year.”
A copy of the Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland can be viewed or downloaded from www.drdni.gov.uk/a-bicycle-strategy-for-northern-ireland.pdf
Printed copies are available on request by emailing: cycling.unit@drdni.gov.uk or by phoning 028 9054 0179.
