Darlington
A compact and flat town, Darlington began the programme with few dedicated cycle lanes or paths. In addition to its Cycling Town stats, Darlington is also one of three ‘Sustainable Travel Towns’ chosen and nominated by the Department for Transport, creating extra focus for its efforts to persuade people out of their cars.
The local authority has already begun to install shared pedestrian/cycle paths and toucan crossings on three out of seven identified radial routes into the town centre, in addition to developing directional signs across the town which motivate users by emphasising the time, rather than the distance, left to travel. Having recently completed major works to create a ‘Pedestrian Heart’ in the town centre, this inner zone has also been opened up to cyclists for a six month trial.
Schools have also been specifically targeted with assistance around school travel plans, the erection of cycle shelters (two thirds now have on-site parking) and Bikeability training, as well as a creative’Medal Motion’ school challenge which targets all 8,000 primary school pupils in the town. The combination of these measures has already encouraged more pupils to cycle to school - jumping from 1 per cent to 4 per cent.
Building on infrastructure and education projects, Darlington has also created a travel awareness campaign to help residents re-consider their transport options. Called ‘Local Motion’ the campaign has included guided bike rides, a cycle loan scheme, and the creation of personalised travel information for local households. It has even extended out to the constabulary, with the purchase of nine bikes and equipment to create a cycling beat.
For further information on local activity, visit www.darlington.gov.uk or contact:
Louise Neale
Transport Policy Officer
Chief Executive’s Department (Regeneration)
Darlington Borough Council
Units 8 - 11 The Beehive
Lingfield Point
Darlington
DL1 1YN
Tel: 01325 388716 or x2716
Fax: 01325 388724
