Bike group supports Environment's plan

The main aims are to encourage people to consider alternative forms of transport, such as cycling, walking and public transport, when possible. The Guernsey Bicycle Group understands the important role cars hold in our transport system, but we believe the whole community would benefit if we were all able and encouraged to use our cars a bit less.

Study after study shows communities that increase their levels of cycling, walking and public transport benefit from improved health and reduced public spending on health- and transport-related issues. It also results in more money in people's pockets to spend on other things.

The strategy supports the 20/20 vision as set out by HSSD, which states: 'all departments commit(ted) to working together with HSSD to create an inclusive and healthy community which supports islanders' physical, social and emotional wellbeing.' In this way, we see the strategy as not being just about cars, but about Guernsey society as a whole.

While we would all rather not see the increase in taxation, we recognise the need for incentives to achieve the strategy aims while also raising the necessary funds for the specific initiatives.

We recognise that doing nothing will not mean everything staying the same, but that our roads will become increasingly clogged with bigger and bigger vehicles, making them an increasingly hostile place to be, and so acting against everybody's best interest.

How will the transport strategy benefit cycling in Guernsey?

The key benefits for cycling involve:

• more and safer cycle ways

• improved marking and signage on cycle ways

• more cycle contra-flow cycle paths

• more cycle parking

These changes will also flow on to benefit pedestrians and bus users as a result of decreased car traffic on our roads.

Should cyclists pay a road tax?

There is no such thing as road tax. Road maintenance comes out of general revenue that all taxpayers contribute towards, including cyclists and pedestrians. It also would be counter-productive to tax a behaviour that causes no damage and is beneficial to the user and wider community.

I won't cycle, or allow my kids to, because it's dangerous

The aims of the strategy are to address this problem. Cycling is a cheap and healthy form of transport and has been shown to improve educational outcomes for children and work performance in adults as well as improving health. Guernsey is already safe for cycling owing to our lower speed limits and smaller roads. However, if you are not a confident cyclist, large vehicles in close proximity can feel intimidating.

The strategy aims to improve this so that cycling can become a viable option for more people and for children travelling to and from school.

The transport strategy will help to bring about a change in approach, culture and attitude to other forms of transport, be it walking, the bus, or of course bicycles. This debate is about much more than car tax – it is about making Guernsey a healthier, safer and more prosperous island for all levels of society.

GUERNSEY BICYCLE GROUP.