Locally, 2010 witnessed a high point in cycling investment with the opening of the Diglis Bridge, which has surpassed all expectations with the level of usage; further infrastructure was installed to connect with the bridge.

Since then only marginal gains have been made, mainly due to a lack of funding, both from central and local government, although Worcestershire County and district councils could achieve more by use of existing resources, including, but not exclusively, funds flowing from property developments, prominent in most areas; several low or no-cost measures could even be undertaken.

The average spend on 'cycle infrastructure nationally, per head of population, is now less than £2 per annum, whereas it is estimated that this needs to be at least £10 to bring our facilities anywhere close to those in Germany.

Reports of traffic congestion and pollution (and the consequent effects on health) are rife in both national and regional newspapers and, whilst some highway improvements may ease the problems, many are only temporary fixes. Further investment in reliable/affordable public transport, the building of safe, yet direct, 'cycle/walking routes and the provision of secure and monitored bike' parking, similar to the Dutch system, are all required to provide those who wish to use such facilities, with an alternative. This will bring economic benefits to Worcester and improve health overall.

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Worcestershire County Council has produced its latest Local Transport Plan which takes a pragmatic view of the needs of the population in the next 10 to 15 years.

The transport, economic and health agendas should be looked at in unison for the benefit of the county and its residents.

Within the last three years, for example, Manchester City Council has appointed Chris Boardman as its Cycling and Walking Supremo, to develop and instigate a sustainable transport plan, within a five-year timeframe, thereby taking a lead over many other cities, but demonstrating what is required into the 2020s.

The future can be more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but there has to be an input of dynamism from politicians, nationally and locally.