11.6 Sustainable and Prosperous Communities
| We will implement transport policies that will contribute to prosperous and sustainable communities |
Communities and commercial areas need good access if they are to prosper. The damaging effects of traffic - excessive speed,
congestion, parking problems and noise and air pollution - must be restricted while access by more sustainable modes is made
more convenient. Lancashire is improving infrastructure for walking and cycling and raising the standard of Public Transport
and Park & Ride operations to attract travellers to the alternatives to the car.
Improved streetscape design in town centres will make them more attractive to shoppers, visitors and workers. Improvements
in residential areas will encourage walking and cycling to destinations including work, schools and local shops as well as
reducing the impact of traffic. Good access is equally important to support the rural economy. Lancashire has made a substantial
contribution to the rural economy through the Rural Partnership Action Plan. In the Forest of Bowland, Rural Futures is giving
valuable assistance to local businesses. Our efforts have been recognised by the award of Beacon Council for Supporting the
Rural Economy and we will continue our support for the countryside.
Local transport is one element of this support and is important to residents and visitors alike. Lancashire has developed
its vision of a network of flexible and bus services serving rural areas and making connection wherever possible with rail
services. In 2005, we have added Rossendale County Rider, Kirkham Link and Pendle Wayfarer to our established services - Ribble
Valley Rider, Garstang Super 8, Carnforth Connect and Bowland Transit. Further, the combination of these and Community Transport
services enables Lancashire to offer a door-to-door service to most of the people in the county who have mobility handicaps.
We will do our best to maintain these services and tailor them to meet local needs more closely.
Lancashire has many areas of attractive countryside which draw walkers and riders to them, bringing custom to the local shops
and restaurants. On the longer trails they need overnight accommodation too. We have established a variety of signed routes
for walkers, cyclists and equestrians which will be extended into a wider network of routes to attract visitors to take exercise
in the countryside and support rural businesses. In addition to these routes, we have introduced a network of Quiet Lanes
and Greenways around the villages of Chipping and Slaidburn to make walking, cycling and horse-riding safer and more popular.
We will study the results of this work to see how similar plans can be developed in other areas.
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