2026 Question 5 - Responses
Question
Cycling UK Stevenage recently contributed to the Stevenage Cycling Strategy Review, led by the Environment & Economy Select Committee. The Committee raised concerns that SBC lacks a systematic monitoring and evaluation programme, meaning we do not know how cycling numbers have changed over the years. To address this, we suggested investigating ways to establish baseline data by installing cycle counters in town. Our residents’ panel notes that where the council engages with cycling, there is a lack of positive engagement; the Council frequently highlights where you cannot cycle, but does not do enough to actively encourage and promote it.
What specific actions will you take to encourage more people to cycle in Stevenage, and how will you monitor success?
Conservative
I will be honest and frank, I do not believe it is for any politician or governmental organisation to tell people which mode of transport they should prioritise using to get from ‘A’ to ‘B’.
The role of the local authority, in my opinion, is to ensure that cycling infrastructure is well maintained, clean and properly signposted (which are the same expectations I have for footpaths and roads). After that it should be a matter of free will as to whether local people choose to cycle or not.
Green
Collaborating with local organisations and charities focused on cycling and active travel, and listening to residents' views and experiences, is essential. This is a core principle in designing a better plan to promote cycling around Stevenage. Measurable data is key to tracking progress and success, and we would strongly support an established system for recording cycling use, such as cycle counters, alongside active engagement with the community to ensure we are positively promoting cycling, not just highlighting restrictions.
Labour
No response has been received.
Liberal Democrat
No response has been received.
Reform UK
I am a big fan of cycling over other forms of travel if/when possible. So yes, I will encourage people to cycle when they can and I will look to make sure the infrastructure is there/around the town to support and encourage cycling. I would also support the installation of cycle counters to establish baseline data, so we can measure whether our efforts are actually working.
TUSC
No response has been received.
Any response received as a general statement addressing all 6 questions will be shown here.