James McGinlay introduced the report and explained that the council had been successful in being shortlisted for a share of the Mayor of London’s fund to share £100 million with other councils to deliver on their vision for cycling provision in the borough. The council are now in the process of submitting a more detailed proposal for consideration with a deadline of December 2013.

The proposal includes major town centres and changes to bus and cycling provision and implementation of bridges. The majority of the initiatives proposed would be delivered over a 5 year period and this would include outreach to communities that don’t cycle. Phase 2 of this application is a live document and is being overseen by a steering group including Members and officers.

There is a briefing to council that is scheduled and a meeting with officers to update on the bid. The council are working with Merton Cycling Campaign in this process and a decision on the success of the bid is expected in February 2014.

Councillor Russell Makin enquired about the Members on the steering group and why this bid had not been seen by the Panel sooner. James McGinlay informed the Panel that Cllrs Judge, Southgate and Howard were on the steering group and that the submission of an expression of interest was made at short notice to ensure the council would be considered at the short listing stage.

Councillor Russell Makin asked what influence the Panel would have regarding phase 2 of the bid. James McGinlay explained that Members views were being sought through briefings and consultation was being undertaken wit Merton Chamber of Commerce, Merton Cycling Campaign and Love Wimbledon.

Councillor Janice Howard asked if the whole Wimbledon town centre area would be pedestrianised as part of the proposal. James McGinlay confirmed that this had been ruled out as an option.

Councillor John Sargeant asked if the bid was successful if the council was duty bound to carry out all of the proposals. James McGinlay explained that there is a large element of ambition in the bid and that some of the proposals are dependent on highways improvements. Consultation would also need to be undertaken and the funds awarded would not cover all costs for delivering the proposals. TfL will be scrutinising this for delivery. There will also be full public consultation and projects may have to be redefined in discussion with the mayor’s office.

James McGinlay informed the Panel that there were 6 authorities in the shortlist. Councillor Miles Windsor emphasised the need for cross party working.

Councillor Dennis Pearce noted the potential disruption to traffic. James McGinlay confirmed that there would be modelling as part of implementation in terms of impact on traffic. The term ‘Mini Holland’ referred to the measures adopted there and the sound evidence base that this works. There will be some disruption but consultation will be undertaken to minimise this. The council wants to make cycling a comparable transport choice. The intended move to modal at 10% target should decrease traffic if this is achieved.

Councillor Stan Anderson asked where bikes would be stored. James McGinlay explained that there would potentially be cycling hubs and other traditional storage solutions in place.

RESOLVED:  Panel noted the report.