New moves on track to help more residents to get on their bikes

New moves are on track to help more residents to get on their bikes.

A council has unveiled a new Wyre Forest Towns Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) for residents in Bewdley, Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster.

This sets out a long-term vision to make walking, wheeling, and cycling in the three towns safer and attractive for everyone.

The plans follow a public consultation exercise held last year, where residents, businesses, and community groups were invited to share their views on how to improve active travel routes and connections across towns.

And the feedback was used to help shape the final plan.

Worcestershire County Council’s highways boss Councillor Tom Wells said: “The Wyre Forest Towns LCWIP sets out a clear framework for how we can enhance walking and cycling routes across the towns of Bewdley, Stourport-on-Severn and Kidderminster, helping residents choose how they travel for everyday journeys.

“It focuses on improving safety, accessibility, and connectivity, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to get around without always relying on the car.”

The LCWIP includes 15 primary and 16 secondary cycling routes and 16 primary and seven secondary walking and wheeling routes in the town centres.

Such schemes do not have direct council funding, but the county council said having an adopted plan puts it and partners in a strong position to secure investment as new funding opportunities become available. The plans support the council’s wider goals around health, wellbeing, and sustainable transport across the county.

LCWIPs have already been adopted for Evesham and Redditch. The LCWIPs for areas including Droitwich Spa, Malvern, Pershore and Worcester are nearing completion while the Bromsgrove LCWIP networks will be subject to public consultation later this year.

The full Wyre Forest Towns LCWIP can be found viewed on the council website.