Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 13, 2025

Purpose: To adopt the Wellingborough and Rushden Area Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   a)      Acknowledged the findings of the public consultation analysis for the Wellingborough and Rushden Area Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) which are included within Appendix A and B of this report;   b)      Approved and adopted the Wellingborough and Rushden Area LCWIP which forms Appendix A of this report as a Council policy document;   c)      Agreed the prioritisation of routes within the Wellingborough and Rushden Area LCWIP should form the basis of work to develop preliminary designs for the routes to form the basis of future funding bids.     Reason for Recommendations – Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) are the recommended Department for Transport approach for planning and co-ordinating provision for active travel modes. They provide a strategic and planned approach for short and long term provision for cycling and walking within the local area.   The Wellingborough and Rushden Area LCWIP has been developed to enable NNC to: ·       Identify prioritised cycling and walking infrastructure improvements for future investment ·       Ensure that consideration is given to cycling and walking within both local planning and transport policies and strategies, and ·       Make the case for future funding for walking and cycling infrastructure.   Alternative Options Considered – While it would be possible to develop an LCWIP based on a different methodology to that contained in Government guidance on LCWIPs, this is not recommended as it would mean that the Council was less likely to secure Government funding. However, should alternative funding (such as financial contributions secured through agreements entered into pursuant to S106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990) become available for particular corridors, it would be possible to progress lower priority schemes on that basis.