A Vision for Cycling at the University of Essex
A document prepared for the Transport Policy Sub-Committee by the
University of Essex Bicycle User Group (Essex BUG)
30 October 2007
After a rigorous process of consultation of its members,Essex BUG has come up with a list of measures considered to improve cycling at and to/from campus. We approve the University’s new strategy to support alternative modes of transport, and believe that the measures itemised below will go a long way toward making cycling a more attractive modes of transport for an increased number of staff and students. While this document aims to only list our wishes and give brief details for each item, Essex BUG is very happy to discuss this document and each measure in more detail in the coming month.
The following list comprises items that Essex BUG would like to see implemented in the short- to medium-term. The list has been prioritised, with the most important items appearing at the top.
1. New development consultation:
Essex BUG needs to be consulted for every new development on campus to ensure the interests of cyclists are being taken into consideration from a very early start. For example, it is important that we are consulted in the very near future with regard to the travel plan of the ResearchPark.
2. Improved access onto and across campus:
There are three access routes to campus that Essex BUG would like to see improved as a priority: Upper Wivenhoe/Wivenhoe Rd; ResearchPark (incl. Elmstead Rd and Tesco/Greenstead roundabouts); Wivenhoe Trail to campus link (better maintenance needed). We also would like to see all barriers removed so that it becomes easier for cyclists (who sometimes come with trailers) to access the campus. There should be a series of new cross-campus routes that connect the main access points.We particularly would like to see convenient, low-gradient cycle routes linking the northern and southern parts of the campus with each other and with the various off-campus access points. All on-campus cycle routes need to be properly signed.
3. More/better cycle storage:
We would like to see much more secure and covered cycle storage in convenient and accessible locations, for commuters and residents alike. The overall number of cycle storage places needs to be increased according to the official Essex planning guidelines, which state that there needs to be 1 cycle storage for every 5 staff and 1 for every 3 students.
4. A BUG budget
Essex BUG organises a range of cycling events throughout the year, and we do a lot to encourage staff/students to get out of their cars and onto their bikes, which benefits the University in a variety of ways. We would like to have a small budget for organising these events. Out of this budget we would also fund the CTC associated membership, costing £75 in the first year and after that £50 per year, which is important in order to get full insurance protection for our activities.
5. Regular cycle training:
Regular ‘Bikeability’ training sessions should be available during and after working hours; available for new/existing staff/students, i.e. to all free of charge.
6. A designated BUG space on campus plus a bike stand
We would like to set up a BUG self-help maintenance group, which will help cyclists to maintain their bikes. In order to do this we urgently need a small and secure space where we can store some tools and a bike stand.
7. More showers and lockers for commuters
There is a need for more showers and lockers for cycling commuters.