Based on the success of the results of neighbouring boroughs with large pots of funding from Department of Transport, Essex County Council has recommended that Brentwood Borough Council prepare and publish a Local Walking and Cycling Infrastructure Plan as soon as possible, to be ahead of other districts and be able to access national funding pots.

Mrs Anderson summarised the report.

After a full discussion, Cllr Poppy MOVED and Cllr Hones SECONDED the recommendations in the report. A vote was taken and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY that Members:

1. Agree that officers to prepare a Local Walking and Cycling Infrastructure Plan (LWCIP) for the borough with the help of Essex County Council and specialist consultants.

2. To agree to part-fund the Local Walking and Cycling Infrastructure Plan to the sum of £5,000 from Brentwood Borough Council funds.

3. To promote Active travel across the borough with Health and Wellbeing at the forefront.

Reasons for recommendation

The LCWIP for Brentwood will support the Council’s objectives to create healthier communities.  It supports the Government’s sustainable travel objectives.  With greater take up it should help reduce congestion in the borough with more people walking and cycling.  The LCWIP will also support Brentwood’s Health and Wellbeing Board objectives with residents becoming more active and improving their health and wellbeing.