The Transport and Air Quality Committee of Richmond upon Thames Council discussed the progress of the Community Cargo Bike scheme and the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service. The committee agreed to set aside space in a council car park for freight consolidation and to respond to the government's consultation on amending legislation affecting electrically assisted pedal bikes.

Review of Cargo Bikes

The Head of Transport Strategy presented an annual update on cargo bike activity in the borough. The report highlighted the usage and carbon emission reductions from the Community Cargo Bike scheme. Cargo bike parking locations near schools were listed, with installations planned for May. A cargo bike festival is scheduled for later in the year to showcase their capabilities.

Tim Lennon from the Richmond Cycling Campaign suggested several improvements, including:

• Removing the pre-booking requirement for cargo bike visits to the Townmead Road Reuse and Recycling Centre.
• Providing route ideas and free D locks for cargo bike users.
• Engaging local businesses and inclusive cycling organisations like Wheels for Wellbeing.

The committee discussed the potential safety and regulatory concerns of the government's consultation on e-bike power assistance. It was agreed that the local authority would not support the current proposals but would highlight opportunities where additional power could be beneficial, such as for disabled people.

The committee resolved to:

1. Note the progress in providing and encouraging greater use of cargo bikes.
2. Agree in principle to set aside space in a council car park for freight consolidation.
3. Delegate the response to the government's consultation on electrically assisted pedal bikes to the Interim Director of Place, in consultation with the Chair of the Committee.

Review of Transport Strategy Service

The Head of Transport Strategy reported on the need for additional resources to manage new work streams arising from school streets, electric vehicles, and bike hangar programmes. The report included a list of additional projects that could be undertaken with extra resources, which would also help bring income into the council.

Tim Lennon supported the proposal to strengthen the Transport Strategy Service, emphasising the importance of engagement with stakeholder groups and local businesses. The committee discussed the benefits of additional cycle lanes and the need for more resources to deliver the council's priorities in this policy area.

The committee resolved to endorse the strengthening of the Transport Strategy Service and recommend to the Finance, Policy and Resources Committee the approval of a revenue budget addition of £94,500 in 2024/25 and £126,000 in 2025/26.

Forward Plan

The Director of Environment and Community Services presented the Forward Plan. It was noted that the gully trials would be evaluated, and a paper on the review of bus services would be expected at a future committee meeting. Councillor Andrée Frieze was encouraged to discuss the review with the Head of Transport Strategy.

The committee resolved to note the Forward Plan.