Hey cycling friends,
Welcome to our April update. Sorry things have been quiet for a while – our resources are dwindling, sadly, and most of us find ourselves pulled in different directions now. However, that does not mean we care any less about the future of cycling in Bridgwater!
Here’s a round-up of what’s been going on for active travel lately.
Town Council Residents’ Survey
In case you didn’t already know, Bridgwater Town Council is currently consulting with all residents about the services they provide us with. This is an opportunity for us all to voice our opinions – the Town Council may not be responsible for highways, but they are responsible for parks and green spaces, and lots more besides. And with the recent devolution deal, they now how more within their remit.
Council Leader Cllr Brian Smedley said,
“Bridgwater Town Council is committed to listening to residents and acting in their best interests. Our residents’ survey will provide valuable feedback on what is important to everyone living in the town and help us to understand what people think of their Council.
“The survey results will also be used to evaluate satisfaction levels with the services the Council provides so that we can continue to make improvements for the benefit of all residents.”
So if you have any ideas about what could be improved locally for active travel, make sure you weigh in. The survey closes on 30 May.
Somerset Coastal Place Partnership
Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership have announced that the Somerset coastal strip, including Bridgwater, has been designated as an official Sport England Place Partnership, securing significant new funding over the next three years to boost active travel and physical activity. This investment aims not just to increase opportunities for walking and cycling, but to address deep-rooted inequalities that prevent many residents—especially children, women, people from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and ethnic minorities—from leading active lives. With less than half of local children meeting recommended activity levels, and physical inactivity contributing to major health issues, the funding is seen as a crucial step in improving health outcomes and reducing pressure on the NHS.
The significance of this funding lies in its “place-based” approach: working closely with local organisations and leaders to tailor solutions to the unique needs and assets of Bridgwater and the wider Somerset coast. The initiative builds on the existing Somerset Moves strategy and has already brought together key stakeholders in Bridgwater to begin shaping a shared action plan. By focusing on community-driven solutions and breaking down barriers to active travel, the partnership aims to make walking, cycling, and other forms of movement accessible to all, ultimately making Somerset a healthier and more equitable place to live.
Support TAN’s challenge to the active travel funding cuts
If you don’t know of them already, Transport Action Network‘s purpose is to help communities press for better (and more sustainable) transport. They support more investment in bus and rail services and active travel.
Right now they are looking to take the Government to court over the bonkers decision to cut funding for active travel, which was taken by the Conservatives in 2023.
In March 2023, ministers cut two-thirds of England’s dedicated funding for walking, wheeling and cycling, the cheapest and most effective forms of local travel in a cost of living crisis. Days later, ministers published an updated climate plan, showing the UK is set to miss its 2030 target due to carbon emissions from road transport. Do you think this makes sense? Well we at Transport Action Network don’t and hope you can help us challenge the decision by taking the Government to court. We need your support to to start the process off. Please contribute and share this page if you can help!
There’s only 2 days left, so get pledging!
Could bike trackers be a game-changer?
A recurring theme we see on social media is that of bike theft in Bridgwater. It seems to be a never-ending problem. But the new Crime and Policing Bill could be a real win for anyone who loves cycling. It would give police the power to use data from bike trackers to search for stolen bikes without needing a warrant first, making it easier and quicker to get your ride back if it’s nicked. This could be a big step forward in fighting bike crime and helping riders protect their beloved bikes.
Don’t forget our new monthly rides!
As previously advertised, our new regular cross-town rides go ahead on the first Saturday of each month. These are easy-going and you can join us for as much or as little of it as you like.
As a reminder, we pick up at the following times and places:
14.00 depart Costa North Petherton
14.15 depart Blake Gardens
14.30 depart King Sedgemoor Inn bus stop
14.40 arrive Costa Dunball
15.15 depart Costa Dunball
15.25 depart King Sedgemoor Inn
15.40 depart Blake Gardens
16.00 arrive Costa North Petherton
If you want to join us at one of these points, just make sure you’re there a few minutes beforehand, as we won’t hang around!
No need to book, just turn up!