Central Bedfordshire Council is asking for ideas on how to improve roads, paths and walkways to make it easier and safer to walk, wheel and cycle in its rural areas. 

The council wants to hear from residents, businesses and local groups to help create long-term plans, known as Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs), for walking and cycling routes.  

The council has already asked for feedback on five areas: 

• Ampthill and Flitwick
• Biggleswade, Potton, and Sandy
• Arlesey, Fairfield, Henlow, and Stotfold
• Dunstable and Houghton Regis
• Leighton Linslade 

Now it wants to hear about the rest of Central Bedfordshire’s towns, villages, and countryside. Input at this stage will help shape a draft LCWIP for rural areas that will then go for formal consultation next year. 

You can provide feedback from now until 23 September 2024. 

Cllr Tracey Wye, Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, said: “We want everyone to have a say, whether you walk, cycle, or use a wheelchair or pushchair – however you get around, your voice matters.  

“Central Bedfordshire is blessed with a lot of beautiful countryside surrounding many small towns, villages and hamlets. This latest LCWIP is about ensuring people in our rural areas are connected to other places and have the option or walking, cycling or wheeling to where they need to go. Your input helps us plan where new paths and routes will make the most difference, and we know local knowledge is key to making the best decisions. 

“Please get involved and encourage friends and neighbours to join in. It’s easy to make comments, use our online map to drop pins in the places that matter to you. These plans aim to make travel safer, greener and healthier for everyone.” 

To discuss the survey with council officers before completing it, in-person sessions have been arranged for 27 August 6.30pm to 8pm at Marston Community Centre, MK43 0DD and on 29 August at 3.30pm to 5.30 pm at Houghton Regis Library, LU5 5ES. Further details are available on our website. Visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations to have your say. 

The online map is hosted on the Commonplace digital engagement platform.