CYCLISTS are being encouraged to help develop a new cycling strategy for Basingstoke.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has commissioned Sustrans, a leading UK charity that aims to encourage people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of their journeys, to create a ‘cycling strategy’ for Basingstoke after consulting with people that live, work and visit the borough to find the best routes.

Local cyclists are being asked to give online feedback on any areas across Basingstoke and Deane where they have encountered difficulties with crossings or a bad route from April 1.

Participants will also be able to make suggestions for new routes or crossing facilities.

Over the next few months, the council will also be consulting with people on local cycling issues and is keen to hear from anyone who may be interested in getting involved in the workshops.

The council will also be producing a cycle route map of the borough to help people find the best route for their journeys in a bid to promote cycling as an alternative method of transport for commuting and leisure activities.

Cabinet member for planning and infrastructure, Councillor Mark Ruffell, said: “Three quarters of all personal journeys are less than five miles long, that’s half an hour on a bike.

“By switching short journeys from car to bicycle, residents can benefit their health and community. We want to hear from cyclists so that we can develop an effective strategy for the borough.”

For more information, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/cycle.