I support the proposal to construct the network of cycle paths as shown in the Local Plan Policies Map. As the urban road system in Hastings is difficult and dangerous for cyclists and is a prime cause of many residents giving up or starting to travel by bike. The cycle network would reduce the risk of accidents and encourage many people to travel by bike for utility and leisure purposes and this would benefit the environment by reducing car journeys, improve health and fitness of the local population and help the local economy.

I would submit one necessary amendment to the cycle network route: The section from Waterworks Road to Hughenden Road at the bottom of Ore Valley should be altered to run alongside the railway line and up the embankment to Mount Pleasant Road and from there to Hughenden Road, rather than the route shown on the Local Plan Policies Map via Baldslow Road which is both steep, busy and entirely unsuitable for cycling. The alternative route is feasible, more direct and safer and was included in the audit of possible routes completed in 2008.