Residents are being encouraged to give their ideas on how routes for walking, wheeling and cycling in Corby can be made more attractive as part of the town’s new Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). 

The ten-year walking and cycling plan will outline proposals for a network of safe walking and cycling routes across the area including dedicated cycle infrastructure, new footways, safer crossings, traffic calming and locations for cycle parking. The plan will cover Corby and surrounding villages and the council is working with WSP and local social enterprise Brightwayz, according to North Northamptonshire Council.

This is a separate consultation to one currently taking place on proposed pedestrian and cycle routes between Corby town centre and train station under the Corby Towns Fund, however, this specific project would sit within the scope of this wider LCWIP.

Developing the plan forms part of the Council’s ambition to promote active travel to help reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality and allow people to travel more sustainably for the shorter, everyday journeys to school, the shops or leisure. This is the first stage of the plan and the information gathered will be used alongside other technical data to help draw up the proposed routes to be audited on site. 

Once the routes have been audited and proposals for improvements developed, the public and other stakeholders will have a further opportunity to have their say before the plan is finalised. 

Once the plan is in place, the Council will be in a stronger position to apply for funding from Active Travel England to build the routes to create a joined-up and safe network. Any routes taken forward for delivery will also be subject to public consultation. 

Cllr Graham Lawman, the council’s Executive member for Highways, Travel and Assets: “I would encourage as many people as possible to have their say as we really need feedback from local people to help shape what sort of sustainable transport infrastructure would best suit the town and to help apply for funding.

“Active travel, which covers walking and cycling particularly and whether it be for leisure, commuting or appointments, is an essential component of creating a sustainable transport infrastructure in North Northants and vital if we are going to reach carbon neutrality by 2030.“

Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council, added: “An active travel network that helps connect communities is a priority for the council. Getting the right infrastructure in place has countless benefits including reducing pollution and helping people live healthier lifestyles.“