Agenda item

The Transport Planning & Projects Team Leader presented the Hillingdon Cycle Strategy, launched in September 2024 after a consultation that received nearly 200 responses. A strong majority supported the strategy’s ambitions and believed it would encourage more cycling. Since its launch, the Council had worked with Transport for London (TfL), hosted a borough-wide cycling event, and welcomed the London Walking and Cycling Commissioner. Initiatives included adult and school-based cycle training, doctor bike sessions, new crossings and upgrades to towpaths and junctions. Cycle parking grants were awarded to five schools, new facilities were installed in local town centres and improvements had been made in Harefield. The Council also began developing a walking and wheeling strategy and continued to report progress to TfL.

During the meeting, it was noted that no new school cycle or scooter parking spaces had been delivered in 2023–24, but 25 were added in 2024–25. Bikeability Level 2 training numbers rose from 1,059 to 1,103. Although TfL provided data, no change in cycling rates had yet been observed, likely due to reporting delays. TfL awarded £451,000 for cycle schemes in the current year, supporting further strategy development.

Members supported the strategy and emphasised using existing green pathways and alleyways for cycling and walking. Concerns were raised about painted cycle lanes on major roads and Members suggested a multi-pronged approach involving education, infrastructure, and community events. Suggestions included cycling events, partnerships with local bike shops and better promotion of cycling.

It was confirmed that Bikeability training was offered to all Year 6 pupils and that adult training was available at a secure track. Pre-COVID initiatives such as “Bikespiration on Tour” had been successful and could be developed. Long Lane was identified as a flagship project, with feasibility studies underway and implementation expected within two to three years.

The Council was working with TfL to improve junctions, especially over the A40, and was promoting lesser-known routes like the one near Swakeleys. A digital map of non-road pathways was proposed to help residents plan safer routes. Secure bike parking was being improved at Northwood, Northwood Hills and Ruislip Gardens tube stations, with plans to expand further.

Safety concerns, particularly around school travel, were discussed. Suggestions included bollards at junctions and group cycling initiatives like “cycle buses.” The Pield Heath Cycle Track offered facilities for disabled cyclists, including tandem and wheelchair bikes.

Although no new cycle lanes had been added in recent years, junction upgrades were underway to improve safety and connectivity. The Council was monitoring the rise of scooters and e-bikes, noting antisocial behaviour and the need for future regulation.

Dockless bike schemes were discussed, with concerns about fly parking and lack of local control. A unique scheme operated by Brunel University was due to end, and the Council was exploring taking it over. The importance of engaging underrepresented communities in cycling was highlighted, with examples like the Asian Ladies Cycling Club in Hayes.

The discussion concluded with strong support for the strategy and a shared commitment to promoting safe, inclusive and accessible cycling across the Borough.

RESOLVED: That the Committee:

1.    Noted the progress on the delivery of the Hillingdon Cycle Strategy, since it was launched in September 2024;

2.    Supported the proposed next steps in delivery for the 2025/26 financial year;

3.    Endorsed the ongoing promotion of cycling as a mode of transport for Hillingdon residents and users of the Hillingdon transport network;

4.    Noted that an accompanying ‘Walking & Wheeling’ Strategy is being developed by Officers.