Chard’s local cycling and walking infrastructure plan (LCWIP) details a new ten-year plan aiming to improve key walking routes to the town’s various schools. Somerset Council’s plan emphasizes the need for enhancements to the existing active travel network, with a focus on facilitating easier access for schoolchildren to Holyrood Academy and the town’s primary schools.
The plan targets four prioritized routes and seeks to encourage sustainable transport options to accommodate local housing growth, reduce congestion, and combat pollution. The ten-year strategy for walking and cycling infrastructure in major settlements is designed to promote greener travel and decrease reliance on private vehicles. Collaboration with local community networks, cycling charities, and campaign groups has shaped the development of these plans.
By establishing these frameworks, the council aims to secure funding for identified improvements, leveraging grants from central government and financial contributions from new housing developments. This strategy aligns with previous published plans for other Somerset settlements, including Bridgwater, Frome, Taunton, Yeovil, and the broader Mendip area.
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The evolving nature of the LCWIPs allows for adaptability based on community feedback and funding availability. The core walking zone in Chard’s town center is marked for infrastructure advancements, encompassing measures such as speed limit implementations, junction redesigns, pavement provisions, and traffic calming initiatives. These enhancements build upon the recently completed Chard regeneration scheme, further integrating the town’s establishments with the evolving residential landscape.
The strategy establishes four key routes aimed at promoting sustainable journeys from both existing and upcoming housing developments. These routes serve major housing developments and essential services, including educational institutions and commercial hubs. The plan includes provisions for widening footways, installing new crossings, and exploring lower speed limits, catering to the safety and accessibility needs of pedestrians and cyclists.
Through proactive engagement with developers and government bodies, the council has secured additional funding for Somerset’s active travel initiatives. This commitment underscores the urgency to implement the identified improvements within the stipulated timeframe, consolidating efforts to enhance pedestrian and cycling infrastructure across the region.