People in Stapleford say plans to turn the town into a 'mini Holland' for cycling are "exciting". The Government has now approved the shortlisting and funding of £79,000 to explore a potential Mini-Holland scheme in Stapleford.
The scheme is designed to turn an area into a cycling hub with Dutch-style cycling infrastructure. Nottinghamshire County Council will work with the local community to identify potential infrastructure improvements and the plans will then go back to the Government before they can be given the green light.
Robbie Muir, 80, who has lived in Stapleford his entire life, said: "I cycle quite a lot, yes, especially in the summer time. A lot of cyclists use the road so I think it's a good idea to do something to help them out. In general, I think the roads are atrocious around here. So anything to improve them I think we should welcome."
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The scheme could include the installation of segregated cycle lanes on main roads, low-traffic neighbourhoods and high streets, and more road space for people to walk. Council documents previously stated the town was chosen after assessments found a ‘mini-Holland’ scheme could increase cycling and walking trips.
Another man, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: "I'd welcome the cycling aspect - I'm not sure I'd want some of the other rules they have over there in Holland! This is Stapleford so I don't think that would work as well.
"I don't cycle myself but it's better for the environment and if it means the roads aren't so clogged up with traffic, then great. I don't think anyone wants to see a huge amount of roadworks all happening at one time, though. I think it's an exciting idea."
Chrissie Beaufort, 55, told Nottinghamshire Live: "I think they should worry about making the roads better for drivers first, because there are more of them than there are cyclists. A lot of these roads have potholes and other problems. I think the money could be better spent elsewhere, definitely."
Councillor Neil Clarke MBE of Bingham West, chairman of the Transport and Environment Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: "Nottinghamshire County Council declared a climate emergency in its May 2021 meeting and we have been actively looking at ways to tackle the cause and effect of climate change. Transport is a significant factor and I'm encouraged that the Government has recognised our ambitious plans with the funding to explore a potential Mini-Holland scheme for Stapleford.
"The principles of the Mini-Holland scheme reflect our ambitious plans which include prioritising walking and cycling to replace short car trips. Our bid has also been supported by the local MP, Darren Henry."
Conservative MP for Broxtowe, Darren Henry, said: "Having championed Stapleford's bid from the start, I am thrilled that the town has been successfully shortlisted along with a select few locations across the UK for a Mini-Holland feasibility study. This funding will be used to put the local community at the heart of developing proposals to improve cycling and active travel in the town."
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