Elections

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Question 14 - we asked:

What do you think should be done, in addition to the measures already approved, to improve the poor walking and cycling environment on Mill Road?

Relevant links (each opens in a new window):

We asked this question only in Romsey.

4 of the 5 candidates (80%) who were asked this question responded as below.

Tom WOODCOCK (Cambridge Socialists)	Seriously considering making all of Mill Road one way for motor transport is the only really viable long term option for liberating more pavement and cycle space. I am also in favor of trailing the closure of part of the road on particular days to encourage different social uses for the space. This has worked very well on the winter fair!
Jamie GIBSON (Green Party)	The Mill Road reclamation scheme is very radical and I agree with most of the points raised. The important balance is between maintaing the influx of stock for local businesses and improving cyclist and pedestrian safety, so consultation would need to be undertaken. As part of this it may be wise to create an incentive scheme, so that businesses are actively encouraged to use smaller, economical vans which will then reduce the need for passing points. There is definitely a role for local community groups to get involved in this project, both in proposing ideas, implementing them and monitoring the effects.
Zoe MOGHADAS (Labour Party)	I must have thought about this issue on countless occasions since moving to Greville road 12 years ago. To be perfectly honest, I avoid Mill Road when cycling, and take the more circuitous route over the cycle bridge, as I do not feel safe when on my bike. I am aware of the arguments for and against the introduction of speed cushions, the removal of the centre lines and other calming measures but have yet to be convinced one way or the other. I love the unique nature of Mill Road, and would wish to ensure that any decision did not adversely affect the shopkeepers - For instance, I am aware from my own discussions with traders, that the various closures of Mill Road to traffic have had a devastating effect on trade.
Raj SHAH (Liberal Democrat)	Cycling in Romsey has to be viewed as part of sustainable transport. We want to develop Romsey into more of a “shared space”, like in Holland; i.e., to change the culture so that motorists perceive road space as a space they share with cyclists and pedestrians. I believe we have shown our commitment to this cause. We have introduced a 20mph zone on Mill Road and the side streets, which we hope to expand in due course. The newly re-opened Tins Path to Cherry Hinton will make it a much more functional commuter route for cyclists; we hope to secure environmental improvements funding to better advertise this hidden gem. We have introduced cycle parking. We have replaced the dangerous road-side drains with seamless cycle-friendly ones, which are much safer – have a look at the one as you go up the railway bridge, it is a big improvement. We have also secured funding for Real Time Bus Information signs on Mill Road and Coldham’s Lane. These have been shown to increase patronage on public transport, taking people out of cars. We have also set up the Street-car club, which will reduce the number of car owners in the ward. All in all I think it is an impressive record and demonstrates our commitment to cycling and sustainable transport.

Camcycle is a non-partisan body. All candidates are given an equal opportunity to submit their views. Information published by Camcycle (Cambridge Cycling Campaign), The Bike Depot, 140 Cowley Road, Cambridge, CB4 0DL.