Executive Summary. London Borough of Bexley. Stage 2 Mini-Holland submission. December 2013 LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENT

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1 LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENT Breaking Bexley Core through Strategy the barriers Stage 2 Mini-Holland submission Adopted 22 February 2012 Executive Summary December 2013 Listening to you, working for you

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3 Contents Foreword 5 Overview of Mini-Holland Bid 7 Problems, Opportunitites and Issues 16 Benefits Expected from the Programme 19 Why Bexley? 21 Programme Vision 25 Meeting Key Objectives 27 Indicative Programme 30 Complementary Activity 31 Programme Performance Indicators 33 Programme Risks 34 Conclusion 37 Breaking through the barriers 3

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5 Foreword We stand at the threshold of an extraordinary transformation in Bexley, one that will see a fundamental change in the way people think about travel, with direct and wide ranging benefits for all our community. This transformation will not be easy, it will also not be achieved overnight. However, we believe there is now a unique opportunity and a clear vision to bring about change in one of the most car dominated boroughs in London. Earlier this year, in our Mini-Holland Expression of Interest, the Council set out an ambitious and comprehensive future vision for cycling in Bexley. Over the last few months we have worked very hard to turn that vision into a deliverable and effective plan of action with the strong support and buy in from a wide range of stakeholders, including cross party support within the Council itself. Our bid maintains the comprehensive nature of our original submission, with many strands of work over a range of areas, including both tried and tested solutions and new and exciting ideas sourced internationally. We have thought very carefully about how things will be done, talking with partners, joining up approaches, identifying issues and presenting practical solutions. Many of our ideas will be capable of replication across London and further afield. In all of this, creating quality spaces and ensuring safety has been at the forefront of our minds as the single biggest barrier to change. Mini-Holland has already started to make a difference: the Council has its first Cycle Champion at Cabinet level; it also has a challenging travel plan for its new Civic Offices with real incentives for staff to switch to sustainable modes; cycling is playing a big part for the first time in many of our emerging major public realm schemes and we have stimulated a serous dialogue locally about the importance and benefits of cycling to the future of the borough. The momentum for change is building and with opportunities offered by so many key, live projects, the time to create lasting change is now. We are therefore delighted to submit the attached Mini-Holland bid for your consideration and look forward to working together to make it a reality. Cllr Teresa O Neill Leader of the Council Will Tuckley Chief Executive Cllr Gareth Bacon Cycling Champion Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Realm Breaking through the barriers 5

6 Bexley Mini-Holland: A Tube Map for Cycling Thames Path Greenwich F.C. Sporting Thamesmead Crossness Engines Museum Southmere Lake Crossness Nature Reserve River Thames Ridgeway The Link Southmere Park Thamesmead Community Spine Yarnton Way The Business Academy, Bexley Norman Road Manor Way Cross Quarter Willow Bank Primary School St. John Fisher RC Primary School Veridon Park Employment Area Riverside Gardens Stevens Park Welling School Bellgrove Road Welling Falconwood Longlands Primary School Blackfen Old Farm Park Upper Wickham Foster s Lane Prim Sch Sidcup Rose Bruford Halls of Residence Longlands Recreation Ground Abbey Wood Cycle Super Hub Plumstead Lesnes Abbey Park New Road Cycle Lift Danson Park Bedonwell School and Clinic St. Thomas More RC Primary School Bexleyheath Bird College Bexleyheath Town Centre Townley Grammar School Blackfen School for Girls Upland Primary School Adult Education College Upton Day Hospital Danson Interchange Birbeck Primary School Civic Centre Bexley Park Wood Hurst Primary School Albany Park St. Augustine School and Clinic Belvedere Sports Ground Belmont Primary School Phoenix Sports Club Russell Park Cleeve Park School Sidcup Library Martens Grove Park Bexleyheath Academy Gravel Hill School Picardy Street Shops Northumberland Heath Shops Barnehurst St. John the Evangelist St. Catherine s School Upton Primary School Hurst Community Centre Belvedere Belvedere Rec Bexley High Street Erith School Oakwood School Crayford Mayplace Town Primary Centre School Shenstone Park Foots Cray Meadows Lower Road Superstores Avenue Road Cycle Lift Erith and District Hospital Hall Place Museum and Visitor Centre St. Mary s Recreation Ground Bexley Belvedere Youth Centre Belvedere Junior and Infant School Erith Recreation Ground Crayford Crayford Marshes Bexley Cricket Club Stable Meadow Sports Ground Erith Erith Pier Key to lines Frank s Park River Darent Erith Town Centre Erith Yacht Club Dartford Strategic Quietways (Mini-Holland) Leisure Routes (Mini-Holland) Other Quietways (Long-term ambitions) Sidcup Town Centre Explanation of symbols Sidcup Sports Club Christ The King St Mary s Sixth Form Sidcup Place Gardens Queen Mary s Hospital Cycle Lift Cycle Hub Crossrail Railway Stations Figure 1: Bexley Mini-Holland - A Tube Map for cycling 6

7 Overview of Mini-Holland Bid The Vision Our plans to bring about a radical shift in the opportunities for and attitudes to cycling in Bexley are ambitious and wide ranging. In line with the ideas outlined in our original Expression of Interest, our bid represents a coherent and deliverable package of schemes and initiatives that will create a credible, high quality and safe network linking key destinations borough-wide. We will build on schemes where we already have a proven track record of success and push back boundaries with new and creative thinking underpinned by robust technical evaluation. Acknowledging the very low base for participation from which we start, the bid places emphasis on a strong, diverse and inclusive programme of projects that reaches out to all members of our community, encouraging everyone to benefit from our proposals. The bid has five key themes: 1. Creating a network of hubs and spokes which transform and join localities within the borough and connecting borough boundaries 2. Our very own tube map establishing strategic quietways and routes suitable for all abilities 3. Breaking down physical and mental barriers to cycling through innovative technical solutions alongside a comprehensive programme of measures to increase participation 4. Changing hearts and minds, inclusive but also leading by example, 5. Strong political leadership Figure 1 sets-out the Council s long-term aspiration for a new borough-wide cycling network. This connects key centres in the borough with each other and with a wide range of attractions, facilities and services, as well as providing connections beyond borough boundaries. This network illustrates the scope of the Councils ambition in the long term. The Mini-Holland proposals will make a significant contribution to the achievement of this comprehensive network as well as ensuring the fundamental attitudinal changes needed to ensure it is effectively used. Breaking through the barriers 7

8 SOUTH THAMESMEAD AND ABBEY WOOD ERITH BEXLEYHEATH Key Quietway cycle route (signage only) Dutch style roundabout SIDCUP Quietway cycle route (with Cycle zone surface treatment) Segregated cycle lane Leisure route Cycle lift T Junction improvement One way all motor vehicles Toucan crossing Raised table Road closure Connection to Greenwich Cycle Network Z Cycle zebra crossing Station Superhub Possible link to Greenwich Cycle Network Cycle link through future development Figure 2: Physical measures overview 8

9 01. Hubs and Spokes This element focuses on four key centres in the borough (see Figure 2), and forms part of a wider cycling strategy. It will create significant amenity for cyclists, with bold plans for the urban fabric, accessibility and environmental improvements that will enhance them as destinations. Each hub will be supported by a series of spokes linking directly to its centre. A summary of key measures in our hubs is provided in the table below. 02. Strategic Quietways and Other Routes We will also create a series of strategic quietways between our hubs. These will run via safe, direct, coherent and attractive routes. Where they intersect or use busier roads, segregation will ensure cyclists can use them safely and confidently. Intersections will be redesigned along each route ensuring appropriate protection for the cyclist and other road users (See Figure 2). Our entire programme is designed to be suitable for cyclists of all levels, without putting them in situations where they feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Our extensive network of direct, quiet streets is key to enabling this. In addition to the road-based quietways running between our hubs, we have identified a series of leisure routes. These will be accessible and safe, providing excellent nurseries for budding cyclists, as they build up their cycling confidence. By linking up key visitor attractions, we are also networking destinations as a further way to encourage participation. 03. Bridging physical and mental barriers to cycling through innovation As a borough, we have a range of physical barriers created by road, rail and topography which our Mini-Holland interventions specifically address. Our proposals now include: Cycle lifts on Avenue Road, Erith and New Road, Abbey Wood. Bridge and subway upgrades in South Thamesmead & Abbey Wood, Erith and Sidcup Reclaiming Harrow Manorway flyover across the railway for all road users A new pedestrian and cycle bridge at Albany Park Full cycle segregation on the Arbuthnot Lane bridge over the A2 Superhub Bexleyheath Erith Sidcup South Thamesmead & Abbey Wood Key Mini-Holland elements Broadway urban realm improvements Albion Road cycleway Multiple spokes Town centre and station cycle parking Erith High Street Dutch-style roundabout Bicycle hire at Erith Station James Watt Way / Queens Road crossing Chislehurst Road segregated cycleway Links to Greenwich Town centre and station cycle parking Yarnton Parkway New Road cycle lift South Thamesmead community spine Crossrail station superhub and urban realm improvements Breaking through the barriers 9

10 Cultural / Behavioural Barriers Whilst the main focus of our bid is physical interventions, it is essential that everyone in our community, residents and businesses alike, is clear about the value that Mini- Holland will bring. Building on current initiatives and creating connections with the Council s Health and Wellbeing and Physical Activity and Sports Strategies, our bid proposes a raft of projects to raise awareness, encouraging take up and ongoing participation to maximise positive outcomes and removing all possible barriers to getting involved. Our highest priorities are listed in the table below. These measures have been developed with our key stakeholders, building on their previous successes and lessons learned. We would also work closely with TfL on promotion and marketing, to provide efficiency savings and greater clarity to the public. source: Sustrans Soft measures and smarter choices Health and leisure Recreational cycling (led rides) Increased number of trained and active ride leaders Fit for Cycling events and call-back School Cycling and Activity Level Support Cycle hire at stations Access for all Retro-fitting of cycle storage in housing estates Grants for workplace cycling, including SMEs* Subsidised cycle hire for low income families Subsidised electric bike loans to Bexley businesses and residents Marketing and promotion Branding and marketing support Cycle events in town centres School competitions Education and training Active School Neighbourhoods Extension to Back on Bike (BOB) training scheme Extension to family cyclist training courses * Small and Medium Size Enterprises 10

11 04. Leading by example and reaching out to all The Council will be relocating to refurbished offices next year and we will be adopting a Travel Plan with challenging measures to promote cycling. Our commitment will be a strong example to our residents and businesses. Reflecting some of our most successful campaigns that have secured high levels of engagement, for example around re-cycling (where we are the most successful London borough), we will: 05. Strong political leadership Our approach is characterised by strong political engagement and leadership. This bid is endorsed by the Leader of the Council and the Leader of the Opposition (see Technical Annex p208). The Vision will be driven forward by the Council s Cycling Champion. This role will be at Cabinet level and will also ensure that all other Council resources are directed effectively to maximise the programme s benefits. maintain stakeholder support and commitment from organisations, formally commissioning their services where appropriate; work closely with schools, colleges and youth organisations to engender a love for cycling at an early age, thereby prompting parents and grandparents to do the same; engage with the health sector to identify opportunities to work with a diverse group of residents to address issues such as obesity and mental health; respond to local business requirements for cycling initiatives to reduce impediments to workforce participation; and use our emerging planning policies and guidance to ensure developers proactively contribute towards the cycling strategy through the designing in of cycle measures at an early stage. Breaking through the barriers 11

12 The cycle lift Inspiration Twenty years ago the first cycle lift was built in Trondheim, Norway. It transports residents effortlessly up a hill towards the city centre, a university and tourist attractions. The lift has helped to promote cycling in the city and has become such a success that the city council has recently renewed the lift with updated technology and eliminated the fee for usage. A similar lift in Bexley would be the first of its kind in the country, providing a focal point for the Mini-Holland scheme, promoting cycling within the borough in an unprecedented way and creating a real enthusiasm for cycling. It can also test a prototype technology for roll out across the Capital. Cycle lift: detail Design Two cycle lifts are proposed, one along New Road connecting the future Crossrail station at Abbey Wood, near to Lesnes Abbey visitor attraction, with Bexleyheath and Upper Belvedere, and the second on Avenue Road connecting cyclists from Erith to Northumberland Heath and onwards to Bexleyheath. The lift at Avenue Road is a quick-win and can be delivered early to generate interest and excitement about our Mini-Holland scheme as well as helping to refine operational approaches ahead of the larger and more complex New Road proposal. The mechanics of the lift design in Trondheim is such that there are some physical limitations to its capabilities. Discussions with the current manufacturers, Poma, have identified that along New Road the most relevant constraints are the length of the lift (maximum 400m) and the turning radii (minimum 400m). The current design is not able to negotiate the corner at the southern end (near the top) of the New Road hill, north of the junction with Hurst Lane. Investigations into existing solutions have not been successful, so a Research and Innovation competition is proposed to develop a solution, ideally jointly with TfL and the Institution of Civil Engineers. Timescales for the delivery of such a competition can be accommodated as delivery of the lift is linked to the completion of Crossrail in The overall length of the lift can be extended by installing two or more lifts in a line. Cycle lift: start point and control panel Cycle lift in use 12

13 Anticipated Demand The likely demand for the lift on New Road and Avenue Road has been assessed and anticipated daily and annual demand is set out in the table below. These demand levels are of the same order of magnitude as the observed usage of the existing cycle lift at Trondheim. Costs The maintenance and operational costs of both lifts combined are expected to be 45k per annum. This is to be addressed through the inclusion of a commuted sum within the funding package. Benefits The benefits of the cycle lifts are: Creation of a unique facility and destination with curiosity adding a key promotional element Developing a prototype that will showcase engineering innovation with solutions widely applicable Encouraging cycling in locations where the topography is challenging Promoting a more healthy lifestyle Providing a connection with the new Crossrail station at Abbey Wood Providing connection between Erith town centre, local residential areas and a major School Completing the Quietway cycle route between Abbey Wood and Bexleyheath/ Upper Belvedere; and Comprising an important element of the Quietway cycle route between Erith and Bexleyheath New Road Avenue Road Potential demand if increase to 2.5% mode share is realised Potential demand if increase to 2.5% mode share is realised Commuting Education 5 20 Leisure Other Maximum Daily Demand Total Annual Demand 36,800 17,100 Breaking through the barriers 13

14 Prioritisation and Costs The table below indicates the priority elements of our Mini-Holland bid. These have been prioritised taking into account a range of factors including Council and TfL objectives, constraints and timescales. Items above the red (dashed) line are all highest priority and are listed alphabetically. Items below the red line are listed in order of priority. This Mini-Holland package will be complemented by the existing or emerging transport, urban renewal and regeneration schemes in Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Abbey Wood and South Thamesmead, together with development proposals in our local plans. Visualisation of Harrow Manorway Flyover, Wilton Road and the new Abbey Wood Crossrail station 14

15 HIGH PRIORITY Physical Measures and Costs ( k) Bexleyheath - Abbey Wood (Strategic Quietway) Bexleyheath - Erith (Strategic Quietway) Bexleyheath - Sidcup (Strategic Quietway) 2,700 5,800 2,600 Bexleyheath (Hub) 10,600 Erith (Hub) 3,300 Leisure Route - Lesnes to Crossness On-going surveys & Monitoring Sidcup (Hub) 3,400 Thamesmead & Abbey Wood (Hub) 10,500 Soft Measures / Smarter Choices and Costs ( k) Active School Neighbourhoods Branding and marketing support Cycle events in town centres and at hubs Cycle hire at stations Extension to Back on Bike (BOB) training scheme Extension to family cyclist training courses Fit for Cycling events and call-back Grants for existing and new community groups to run cycling initiatives Grants for workplace cycling, including SMEs Recreational cycling (led rides) Retro-fitting of cycle storage in housing estates School competitions School Cycling and Activity Levels Support Subsidised cycle hire for low income families Subsidised electric bike loans to Bexley businesses and residents Total Cost ( ) 4,900 44,700 MEDIUM PRIORITY Leisure Route - Old Bexley to Sidcup Leisure Route - River Darent Bridge Abbey Wood - Erith (Strategic Quietway) Leisure Route - Dartford Salt Marsh to Old Bexley ,400 Area-wide and 3,300 Personalised Travel 48,800 Planning Cycling app 270 3,500 Loyalty card with cycling rewards 52,500 2,500 55,000 Notes Costs are approximate and are rounded to the nearest 100k (or nearest 10k if total is less than 1m). Costs include inflation at 3.5% per annum. Costs include cycle lift maintenance and enhanced infrastructure maintenance to 2036/37. Costs include a pro-rata allowance for programme delivery and project management. Costs have been validated against known LoHAC term contractor rates. Costs for physical measures include the following allowances: o Contractor prelims and fees (20%) o Designer fees (10%) o Traffic management (10%) o Contingency (25%) Breaking through the barriers 15

16 Problems, Opportunities and Issues Meeting the borough s challenges A key issue for Bexley is poor connectivity which is exacerbated by a combination of factors including low public transport accessibility levels, suburban densities and topographical challenges that result in a transport network reliant on motor vehicles. This has created an unsustainable car dependent culture that not only leads to greater deprivation through creating isolated places but also has negative impacts on health and quality of place. NEW ROAD Cycling survey A survey has been carried out to understand attitudes towards cycling of people currently living in, working in or visiting Bexley. It was undertaken at the four main hubs and asked people about their current cycle use, what they saw as the biggest barriers to cycling, which measures they would most like to see implemented and how much those measures would encourage them to cycle. Overall the two biggest barriers to cycling were a lack of access to a bicycle (36%) and safety concerns (27%). These not only affect overall use but also frequency of cycling. The two most popular measures to improve cycling were segregated cycle lanes on busy roads (27%) and traffic free cycle routes away from junctions (42%). This desire for segregated routes away from cars reflects people s concerns over safety and the likelihood of accidents while sharing the road with motor vehicles. WOOLWICH ROAD 16 Plan of new crossing at New Road / Woolwich Road WEST HEATH ROAD

17 The borough s key problems and issues are set out in the table below: Issue Description Poor connectivity Three radial railway lines cause severance,exacerbated by challenging topography and busy roads; Poor diversity of public transport creates isolated places High car dependency Low cycle use Air quality Health and physical activity Deprivation Public realm and connectivity Per household in London, Bexley has the fifth highest average car/van ownership (1.17) up from 1.13 in 2001; 60% of all journeys made by car; and 84% of potential cycle trips are currently made by car (London average = 64%). While 38% of Bexley residents have access to a bike, the same as London as a whole; only 0.74% of all journeys are made by bicycle (London average is 1.66%). The whole of Bexley is an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA); High concentration of NO 2 emissions are present along major road corridors; There are acute PM 10 levels in the Manor Road area. Inactivity is a key health issue for the borough, resulting in primary and secondary health costs of approximately 2.8m each year; 10.7% of children aged 4-5 years and 22.1 % of children aged in Bexley are classified as obese, higher than the England average; Half of Bexley residents do no sport or physical activity at all; and The percentage of adults taking part in 1x 30 minutes of physical activity or sport each week is 34.5% which is less than the London and national averages. Areas in Bexley suffering high deprivation tend to correspond to areas with low access to services and public transport; and Currently many Bexley residents do not live within walking distance of a train station and bus connections across the borough are in need of improvement. Car dominated places are often of poor visual quality and unpleasant to pass through or stay in; and To encourage participation, more needs to be made of potential destinations and safe routes to reach them. Breaking through the barriers 17

18 BUS STOP WEST STREET RIVERSIDE GARDENS Copyright This map is reprod material with the p on behalf of the Co Stationary Office. Crown copyright Unauthorised repro copyright and may civil proceedings. Contains Ordnance and database right TRAMWAY HOUSE BUS STOP Revision Details ERITH HIGH ST Drawing Status Job Title NEW DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES Drawing Title Bexle M Ju Eri Scale at A3 Drawn Stage 1 check MS JL Stag STONEWOOD ROAD BEXLEY COLLEGE 0 5 Tel: Drawing Number Plan and visualisation of proposed Dutch-style roundabout in Erith 18

19 Benefits expected from the Programme Meeting the Council s aspirations The scheme will result in a number of measurable benefits, as follows: Number of cyclists: Increase in the proportion of journeys by bicycle in the borough; and Increase in the number of people regularly cycling in the borough. Attitudes to cycling: Increase in the proportion of people that believe cycling is safe in the borough; Reduction in perceived barriers to cycling; and Increase in the proportion of people that intend to cycle. Road safety: Reduction in the number of road casualties; Reduction in motor vehicle traffic; Improvement in the condition of roads; and Increase in the number of qualified cyclists. Consequential benefits: Increase in perception of cycling being an inclusive activity for everyone; Increased access to bicycles and secure storage facilities; Increase in the proportion of adults regularly doing 30 minutes of physical activity at least 3 times per week; Reduction in obesity levels for adults and children; Improvements to overall health and wellbeing; Decrease in dependency on the private car; Improved air quality along major road corridors; Greater outreach of education and awareness about cycling; Increased participation in cycling events; and Increased number of school and work Travel Plans implemented. Improved places: Improved reputation and amenity, enhancing regeneration and inward investment; Enhanced quality of life; Improved environment; Enhanced public realm encouraging people to visit and stay longer in key locations; and Increased vitality and vibrancy of town centres and public spaces. Breaking through the barriers 19

20 Above: Visualisation of Broadway, Bexleyheath Right: Broadway, Bexleyheath, today 20

21 Why Bexley? An urgent need to meet the challenge Bexley currently has a high dependency on the car. The lack of attractive, flexible alternative transport choices has resulted in significant traffic issues in the borough. As the population grows and the need for services increases, it will be necessary to mitigate any further harmful impacts of car use on traffic, the environment and air quality, by removing barriers to and encouraging other modes of travel. Cycling will make a positive contribution to reducing car dependency and will complement the Council s wider initiatives to promote enhanced public transport in the borough. The cycling survey confirmed the very low baseline for cycling in the borough. Out of those surveyed, 60% said they never cycle and a further 10% said they use a bike less than twelve times a year. 13% of the respondents said they use a bike daily. In order to achieve our aspirations to significantly increase cycling it will be necessary to make big changes across the borough. Highly committed and well placed to drive change There is currently a very low take up of cycling in the borough, but there is a growing interest in cycling that should be nurtured. The cycling survey demonstrates that if the Mini-Holland measures are implemented real benefits will be delivered. This is evidenced both via our stakeholder event and also by our survey respondents who were asked to give their level of cycle use after their preferred measure. Results showed that the proportion who never cycle would come down from 60% to only 27% if their preferred measure was implemented. Furthermore, daily cycle use would increase from 13% to 26%, weekly from 7% to 20% and monthly from 9% to 14%. In recent years we have been working with TfL and other partners to make the borough more cycle friendly. New cycle links have been planned and have started to be put in place. In 2011 the borough installed one new junction and built 4.92km of routes, with the major focus being improvements to existing cycling facilities at junctions along Abbey Road. The entire project is yet to be completed; however progress to date is having a slightly positive impact on cycle use. Since 2001 there has been an increase of cycle journeys to work across the borough, up from 1% mode share to 1.4% in This small increase demonstrates that improvements to cycling facilities will increase the number of cyclists; however a significant increase in investment, and a coordinated programme of associated soft measures / smarter choices will be required to secure the scale of change sought. Breaking through the barriers 21

22 We recognise that schools have a strong role to play in helping to change attitudes in the borough. Research from Sustrans shows that 1 in 2 children want to cycle to school. The Council runs a range of school-based cycling initiatives. We are committed to continuing this work with schools and colleges, in order to ensure safe routes and appropriate facilities are provided. This is of increased importance in the context of a significant school expansion programme and college relocation and improvement initiatives in Erith and Sidcup. We are also leading by example through implementing a Travel Plan that encourages cycling at our new Civic Office location. 3% of staff already cycle, with 4% of staff intending to cycle to the new Civic Office. This is greater than the borough average for cycling and is a good starting point, but we know this figure can be significantly increased if the wider cycling facilities are improved through the Mini-Holland scheme. There is also a clear interest in cycling from the general population. This interest must be nurtured through the provision of appropriate cycling facilities. Visualisation of the junction at Gravel Hill / Watling Street, adjacent to the new Civic Offices 22

23 A Clear Opportunity Unique in London Overall it is clear that the borough has significant challenges to address but there are an equal number of opportunities and the measures implemented through the Mini- Holland programme can bring about significant benefits for everyone. Bexley currently has a range of projects and initiatives that can align to act as a springboard to transformational change. The borough population is growing and in order to ensure this does not result in increasing traffic on our roads, there is a need to deliver other transport choices. Promoting cycling in the borough will make a significant contribution to reducing car trips, as well as increasing connectivity and encouraging healthier lifestyles. Mini-Holland will achieve this all the more. In order to maximise the potential of major developments and regeneration projects in the borough it will be necessary to provide a step change in connectivity and accessibility. In light of the relatively low Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) in much of the borough, improvements to cycling represent a significant opportunity to provide a sustainable and affordable mode of transport for existing and future residents and employees. In addition, creating safe and attractive cycling routes requires an upgrade of the public realm generally. This will result in more attractive places that invite people to visit and invest in and will maximise the benefits of major developments and regeneration schemes. Over the next 10 to 15 years, much of the housing and employment growth in the borough will be focused in Bexleyheath, Abbey Wood and Erith. The success of many new developments will depend on sustainable transport connections. Sites include Erith Quarry, the largest potential development site in the borough yet to come forward and Erith Western Gateway which includes the current construction of a new Bexley College campus adjacent to the station due to open in September The arrival of Crossrail will also unlock development in Abbey Wood, Thamesmead and Belvedere whilst further and higher education relocations and improvements in Sidcup offer the opportunity to harness the support of a vibrant and growing student community. Further details of major developments and regeneration proposals are set out in the Complementary Activity schedule. Breaking through the barriers 23

24 Plumstead ABBEY WOOD Abbey Wood BELVEDERE Belvedere Erith ERITH Slade Green Welling Bexleyheath Barnehurst Falconwood BEXLEYHEATH CRAYFORD Crayford Dartford Sidcup SIDCUP Albany Park Bexley BEXLEY FOOTS CRAY London Plan Opportunity Areas Core strategy, sustainable growth areas Thames-side policy area Thames Gateway Railway line/station Opportunity areas ,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 Metres 1:20,000 Contains Ordnance Survey data Crown copyright and database right

25 Programme Vision Mayor s Cycling Vision for London The Mayor published his Cycling Vision for London in 2013 which seeks to make cycling a normal part of everyday life for everyone. If the Mayor is serious about increasing cycling in London, he must tackle places like Bexley, where the existing cycling uptake is very low. The Bexley Mini- Holland programme will make a positive contribution to meeting the key outcomes sought by the Mayor s vision, as demonstrated in the table below: Cycling Vision Key Outcome A Tube network for the bike Safer streets for the bike More people travelling by bike Better places for everyone Bexley Mini-Holland scheme response The cycle network will supplement public transport provision in the borough; The Bexley Cycling Tube Map will offer simple inclusive routes to key attractions, facilities and services in the borough. Cycling to central London will be provided through connection to the Strategic Quietway from Abbey Wood through Greenwich. The proposals include improving junctions across the network, implementing traffic calming measures, providing for segregation and ensuring secure cycling facilities. The extensive network of quietways within the borough, will be used. Improvements are proposed across 48km of cycle routes, including 13km of segregated routes or off-carriageway routes and an additional 21km of roads specially treated to become shared space cycle zones. A comprehensive programme of education, training, marketing and promotion will inform, encourage and reassure people with regard to safety issues. There is currently a very low take-up of cycling in Bexley, so the interventions have the potential for a considerably greater increase in the number of people cycling. The Bexley Mini-Holland proposals are aimed at making cycling a realistic transport choice for all members of the community. The interventions target everyday trips to reduce the number of short cyclable trips that are currently largely being undertaken by car The proposals seek to change people s hearts and minds around the benefits of cycling. The proposals will significantly improve the public realm, enhancing the appearance of town centres and public open spaces and humanising existing car dominated routes. Interventions are targeted in areas that are undergoing regeneration and growth, where public realm improvements will allow the benefits of regeneration to be maximised and ensure sustainable transport options for the local community now and in the future. Creating locations as destinations that people will wish to visit and feel they can access safely is key to increasing participation. Breaking through the barriers 25

26 Visualisation of Chislehurst Road, Sidcup Visualisation of Church Road, Bexleyheath 26

27 Meeting Key Objectives The Bexley Mini-Holland Opportunity Our proposal has been informed by the Mayor s key objectives. The Mayor s vision for Mini- Holland in the Outer Boroughs A substantial redesign of the main town centre to make it genuinely excellent for cyclists. The Bexley Opportunity The Mini-Holland initiatives will build on the success of recent regeneration and improvement projects in Bexleyheath Town Centre Revitalisation Phase 1. Mini-Holland proposals will be delivered alongside or instead of Bexleyheath Town Centre Revitalisation Phase 2. The proposals will extend recent public realm improvements, undertake major junction interventions, provide a segregated cyleway along Albion Road and provide further cycle parking. Redesigns of some of the secondary town centres. Sidcup will become a cycle superhub. An outstanding public realm will be created with a signficant improvement in cycle accessibility. The Mini-Holland initiatives will link into the proposals to expand and improve higher and further education institutions in and around Sidcup town centre. In Erith the severance caused by major roads and railway lines will be addressed and the potential of development sites including the new Bexley College campus will be enhanced. While Abbey Wood is not a designated town centre, it will become an important strategic hub for the borough once Crossrail is open. To maximise the benefits of the new Crossrail station, this area will be transformed into a cycle superhub with a step change in the quality of the public realm. Addressing severance, where this is a problem: new cycle and pedestrian crossings of major roads, railway lines or waterways. Bridge and subway improvements will overcome severence caused by railway lines. Cycle lifts and electric bikes will overcome issues associated with challenging topography. Segregated cycle routes, cycle crossings, traffic calming and promotion of quietways will overcome challenges associated with busy roads. Breaking through the barriers 27

28 The Mayor s vision for Mini- Holland in the Outer Boroughs A network of good cycle routes radiating out from the main town centre, and perhaps secondary centres, to other parts of the borough, paralleling all the main local travel routes. Redesigns of problem junctions where they are used by cyclists. At least one good commuter route from the borough to central London. The Bexley Opportunity A network of strategic routes will radiate from the identified hubs. They will connect the hubs via direct strategic routes and link local destinations and neighbourhoods. Numerous junctions have been identified for redesign in order to facilitate identified routes. A cycling superhub will facilitate access to the new Crossrail station at Abbey Wood, whose services will link direct to Canary Wharf, the City and the West End. Spokes are proposed to link Bexleyheath and Sidcup town centres to the nearest stations, neither of which are in town centres. A number of the new routes will be linked in to the Strategic Quietway running from Abbey Wood through Greenwich to central London. Significant numbers of short local car journeys, within the borough and nearby, replaced by bicycle journeys. The proposed network of hubs and spokes will be designed to reduce the number of short car trips to local facilities. Further cycling facilities will be provided at other local centres through complementary funding and development proposals. Cycle superhubs, with large amounts of secure cycle parking, at local railway station(s). Bexleyheath is already identified as a cycle superhub for the borough, and as part of the proposals provision in this area will be further enhanced. Superhubs will also be provided at Abbey Wood and Sidcup along with major upgrades to cycle facilities in Erith. 28

29 The Mayor s vision for Mini- Holland in the Outer Boroughs Significant local marketing and promotional efforts, though the main emphasis will be on hard infrastructure measures. The Bexley Opportunity A signficant and coordinated programme of soft measures / smarter choices will include; grants and promotional materials for cycling; cycle hire provision at stations; Fit for Cycling events; loyalty cards; retro-fitting cycle storage in housing estates; subsidised electric bike loans; subsidised cycle hire for low income families; cycle events in town centres; a cycle app; Active School Neighbourhoods programme; travel planning initiatives; family cyclist training courses; and an extension to the Back on Bike training scheme. Targeted efforts to increase cycling by key demographic groups in your borough who cycle less than average (in some boroughs this might be ethnic minorities, in others the elderly, in others C2DE social groups.) Ensuring that all new developments and projects are genuinely cycle-friendly. The Equalities Impact Assessment will ensure that the final proposals are tested in terms of inclusivity. Areas of high deprivation in Bexley correspond to poor public transport provision and access to services. The proposals will provide an affordable and efficient mode of transport to open up these areas and improve access to employment and services. Direct initialitives will target the following groups: Housing estates: Through retro-fitting to provide safe cycle storage, creating safer places which cyclists can use confidently; Low income groups: through subsidies for cycle hire schemes; Elderly: through electric bike subsidies; and Disabled: through targeted training and education initiatives The Council will ensure proactive planning policies requiring developments to integrate with the cycling strategy. Locally-specific design guidance will ensure an emphasis on cycling and good quality streets. Breaking through the barriers 29

30 Indicative Programme Action Start (month/year) End (month/year) Data collection Apr-14 Nov-15 Feasibility and initial design Apr-14 Nov-15 Detailed design and consultation Jul-14 Oct-16 Contract award and implementation Apr-15 Nov-17 Soft measures and smarter choices Apr-14 Mar-22 Proposals for Yarnton Way 30

31 Complementary Activity The list below provides a summary of the emerging policies, guidance, major proposals and local initiatives that will be mutually reinforcing to the Mini-Holland programme. Programme / scheme Local Implementation Plan Summary Key transport strategies and targets for the borough up to 2016/17. Complementary cycling proposals and public realm enhancement include: School and local safety schemes. Sidcup Town Area Renewal (Phase 3). Bexleyheath Town Centre Traffic Management and Safety Measures. Cyclist training. Road safety campaigns and exhibitions. Travel awareness campaign for Bexley. Yarnton Way Streetscape, Thamesmead. Transport and regeneration strategy. Borough Cycling Programme Creating safer streets for cycling through cycle training, safer lorries and vans initiatives and safer urban driver training. Promoting more cycling through cycle to school partnerships and increased cycle parking. Supporting cycling through appropriate strategies. Planning policy documents Saved policies of the Unitary Development Plan Core Strategy Emerging Detailed Policies and Sites Local Plan Major proposals Crossrail to Abbey Wood South Thamesmead Regeneration Framework Bexleyheath Town Centre Revitalisation Sidcup Town Area Renewal Erith Western Gateway Development Framework Breaking through the barriers 31

32 Programme / scheme School/college expansions Summary Christchurch Primary School (Erith) Gravel Hill School Old Bexley Church of England Primary School Crook Log Primary School Northumberland Heath Primary School Peareswood Primary School Woodside/Colyers Schools Proposals emerging from the latest School Commissioning Plan Bexley College - FE Bird College - HE Rose Bruford College - HE Education and training Health and leisure Marketing & promotion Physical Education and School Sport support for Schools Primary schools Sports Premium programme School Games Coordinators and programmes Fit for Life Clubs School bike clubs Cyclist training Education initiatives Safety programmes Travel Plans Physical Activity and Sports Strategy Leisure Centres Health and fitness programmes GP Referral programme London Healthy Schools programme Junior and Adult Cycle Clubs British Cycling Federation programmes Now s the Time project (targetted physical activity and sport programmes) Obesity plans Health and Wellbeing Strategy Archway cycle hire scheme Active Bexley branding Bexleyheath Town Centre Revitalisation Bexley First Family Fitness Get on your Bike Join In Campaign (Youth Council trying different sports) In Store for Sidcup Bexleyheath Area-Wide Travel Plan Access for all Retro-fitting existing buildings to include cycling facilities 32

33 Programme Performance Indicators Our wide-ranging programme of interventions will have significant impacts on a large number of key performance indicators. These will include: Road casualty reductions with associated quality of life enhancements. Reductions in road traffic growth, particularly car travel. A significant increase in cycle mode share from 0.5% to 2.5% borough wide and even more on some routes. A reduction in CO 2 emissions with associated environmental sustainability benefits. Improved activity levels with associated health benefits. A full description of all relevant performance indicators are provided in the Technical Annex (p27-28 and p ). Visualisation of Russell Park cycle proposals Breaking through the barriers 33

34 Programme Risks Risk We have thoroughly assessed the risks associated with our proposals and carefully considered the mitigation required. The full risk register is contained within the Technical Annex (p ). Key risks and associated mitigations include: Finance, particularly where full funding for complementary schemes is not obtained. We have responded by including an appropriate element of contingency in our bid to ensure an effective scheme can be secured Programme, particularly issues of dependency on other schemes and issues of network management. We have responded by proposing close partnership working with delivery agencies and stakeholders, and effective programme management to avoid issues Political, in the context of the requirement for cross boundary agreements. We have responded by liaising closely with adjacent boroughs Technical, in the context of proposals for innovative design solutions. We have responded by proposing practical solutions and approaches together with close working with TfL and DfT. 34

35 Consultation In developing this bid there has been a strong emphasis on engagement with key stakeholders to ensure in principle support for our proposals and broad alignment with their own priorities for cycling. This has included the following activities: Regular briefings and consultation with the Council Leader on progress of the bid and emerging proposals Regular briefings, site visits and consultation with the Council s Cycling Champion to discuss emerging proposals and other issues Regular reporting of emerging proposals to the Council s Management Board including the Chief Executive and service directors. Telephone and internet survey of local companies attitudes to cycling Questionnaire surveys of local rail commuters and pedestrians within the proposed cycle hubs Engagement with TfL officers within Bus Network Development, Signals Unit and Network Management to discuss proposals and secure in principle support The overwhelming response from this range of engagement has been strong support for the principles of the bid and huge interest in further engagement to help shape the detail of and deliver interventions. Briefing with the Leader of the Opposition and confirmation of support from Labour Group (see Technical Annex p208) Meetings with Council officers from all relevant service areas to discuss the development of the bid Meetings with cycling officers of Bromley, Greenwich, Lewisham, Dartford and Kent County Council to discuss cross boundary links and confirm potential projects Meeting with Sustrans London Director to discuss emerging bid and potential joint working Stakeholder event held on 14 November attended by range of stakeholders including British Cycling Federation, London Cycle Campaign, Sustrans, CTC, local housing associations, National Health Service, local education providers, local cycle clubs and local employers (see Technical Annex p ) Breaking through the barriers 35

36 Visualisation and cross section along Arbuthnot Lane 36

37 Conclusion We are delighted to submit this proposal for funding for the development of Bexley as a Mini-Holland borough. Our Technical Annex sets out more detailed information, including a selection of schemes that would form part of our transformation. We very much look forward to discussing these with you. Whilst we will be starting from a low baseline in terms of cycling participation, we believe this is both the challenge and strength of our bid. If the Mayor is seeking a borough that can truly be transformed, then Bexley is that borough. We believe our offer in terms of travel behaviour and place-making is likely to be unmatched anywhere in London. Not only would we deliver significant increases in cycling, we would also ease air pollution, improve health, boost local businesses and transform communities. Our extensive network of cyclable streets, combined with the number of short trips that could be converted to bike, affords us an unprecedented opportunity. There has never been a better time to drive change in the borough. A broad ranging and coordinated programme of investment and redevelopment is taking place, in our deprived areas, our major town centres, our employment hubs and at the heart of the Council itself. This change has been made possible by clear political leadership with cross party support as well as a strong ethos of partnership working with local organisations businesses, residents and staff. This will act as a springboard to further achievement and together we stand ready to seize the moment. In doing so we will deliver a stunning transformation in travel and create a new and diverse cycling culture in Bexley. Breaking through the barriers 37

38 Insert here Contact information: Strategic Planning & Transportation Hill View, Hill View Drive, Welling, Kent DA16 3RY 38