Election Cycle 2016 – Newry & Armagh

“We especially liked your idea of using the unused railroad system in Northern Ireland to create a network of vehicle free roads.

“It would be a massive regeneration project that would stimulate our construction, leisure and tourism trades and provide jobs in many rural areas which is much needed.

“The provision of local jobs in rural areas is problematic and could be eased by focusing some resources on developing leisure and tourism.

“A project of this magnitude would put NI on the map for an increasingly leisure driven Europe and a thriving cycling scene in NI.

“We are abundantly supportive of NI Greenways and your cause.”

1. I do not support that level of funding for cycling.  Greenways should be for recreation on foot.
2. I do support a network of greenways as they give a large social return for low outlays.  I had reservations about the Comber Greenway which was a lost light rail opportunity.
3. I don’t support the introduction of such an act.

1. “Investment: Yes. I believe that any stimulus we can use to encourage both more cyclists and safer cycling conditions should be supported.
2. Greenways: Yes I’ve enjoyed cycling along the tow path between Newry and Portadown and know if there are more joined up routes it will promote a healthier lifestyle and attract more visitors.
3. Legislation: Yes. We need to promote healthier more active lifestyles by legislating to support our ambition.”

“I support a strong traffic-free greenways strategy with funding attached to enable rural inter-town and inter-village active travel routes across the region, improving accessibility to rural locations while incentivising rural development and promoting tourism opportunities. The public health of rural communities is often overlooked in policy discussions, and greenway development is one of many steps we can and should take to address some of these growing concerns for rural communities.

“I support the introduction of an Active Travel Bill which incorporates cycling and walking provision, and accessibility impact assessment considerations for each, into land-use planning and new developments, both rurally and within urban areas. I would also support legislative measures, where within the remit of the NI Assembly, to incentivise bicycle- and pedestrian-centred developments within urban centres, and a move towards a cellular block structure for town centres and residential areas, to strongly limit through traffic while retaining access for emergency services, deliveries and service, residents and disabled people.

“Cycling is a massive part of my life, and is something which has greatly improved my quality of life. I have seen the benefits which bicycles can bring for mobility, quality of life, and the bank balance. I would be keen to prioritise cycling and accessibility of our transport system generally during my time in the Assembly if I was elected. We have pressing environmental, financial, public health and urban liveability concerns facing us, and cycling can begin to address all of these in a significant way.”

1. Increased investment in cycling of at least £10 per head of population.
2. The development and realisation of the health, rural regeneration and tourism potential of Greenways across the region and where possibly with connectivity to the rest of the island.
3. An Active Travel Act to incorporate cycling and walking provision into land-use planning and new development.

“We will work with everyone to make this the best cycling region in these islands.”