FAQs
- Local authority capacity to support the proposal’s development
- Local authority commitment, willingness to deliver high quality, ambitious projects.
- Local authority active travel policy position
- Local authority delivery, i.e. recent history of successful project delivery.
- Settlement population size.
- Links to wider programmes such as eMove and School Streets.
- Facilities within the town (education, transport, health etc.).
- Maturity of the walking and cycling network
- High potential for modal shift based on the propensity to cycle tool.
- Wheelchairs (manual or powered)
- Mobility scooters
- Handcycles
- Other assistive wheeled devices used by people with limited mobility i.e. wheeled walking frames
What is the Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Demonstrator Town Programme?
The programme is identified as a priority in Welsh Government’s Active Travel Delivery Plan. Transport for Wales is leading the programme to show what’s possible when infrastructure improvements and behaviour change initiatives are delivered together, addressing barriers and increasing levels of walking, wheeling and cycling. |
Why has Newtown been chosen as a Demonstrator town?
In early 2023, the Welsh Government invited all local authorities to submit an expression of interest (EoI) to suggest towns that should be considered. The nominations were then shortlisted based on a range of criteria including………. On the basis on how well each town met the criteria, Newtown was selected. |
Are there other examples of demonstrator towns?
There are no other examples in Wales. However, the idea has been tried before in England. Worcester, Peterborough and Darlington were selected as Sustainable Travel Towns in 2003. |
How long will the programme run for?
The Active Travel Delivery Plan states the programme will run until at least 2027.
How does this programme relate to the work Powys County Council are doing to implement the Active Travel Network Map?
We are working closely with Officers in Powys County Council to ensure that any work or activity undertaken as part of the programme is entirely complimentary.
Is there a Steering Group for the programme?
Yes – we have representatives from Welsh Government, Powys County Council, Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council, Welsh Local Government Association, the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and University of Bristol. The Group meets quarterly. |
What is Active Travel?
Active travel put simply is an umbrella term used to group walking, wheeling and cycling.
What is ‘wheeling’?
“wheeling” generally refers to using mobility devices with wheels as a means of getting around. This includes: |
Will the programme look at improving the walking, wheeling and cycling experience of those who live in Kerry, Abermule and other neighbouring settlements?
The primary focus will be on Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn.
What sort of improvements will be considered?
We will focus on those improvements that residents and regular visitors feel will make a positive difference to levels of walking, wheeling and cycling in the town. This might include new routes, improved wayfinding, better surfacing, dropped curbs, enhanced lighting.
Will the programme provide training and support for me to ride a bicycle?
We are engaging with a variety of stakeholders to better understand what might make walking, wheeling and cycling easier. This will inform the sort of support and improvements we will consider. Adult cycle training may be one of the options.
Can I get access to a bicycle to ride more often?
Provision of bicycles is something under consideration. We are aware that Bike to the Future have bicycles for hire and need to ensure anything the programme might provide is complementary.
Will the programme provide more secure bicycle parking?
We expect to improve the provision of bicycle parking in the town centre and at the rail station, this may include secure options. |
How can I get involved? And how can I share my thoughts and views?
We would love to hear your thoughts and views, and you can get involved by completing the survey or attending one of the In person engagement events. |