Essex County Council maintains strong active travel rating

The council’s rating demonstrates support for residents making sustainable journeys.

Essex County Council has maintained its strong rating in delivering active travel across the county, improving the quality of choice residents have in how they travel.

Active Travel England confirmed the council continues to have a capability rating of two, representing ‘visible local leadership and support with an emerging network’.

The rating reflects the council’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and policies which encourage physically active journeys, such as cycling and walking.

The council will continue to strongly support active travel funding from government, resulting in high-quality infrastructure to help residents make active travel part of their everyday lives.

A rating of two signifies strong local leadership and clear plans which form the basis of an emerging network, with some active travel elements already in place.

This includes the Healthy School Streets programme on Sawyers Hall Lane in Brentwood and a two-way cycling facility on Head Street in Colchester. 

A new draft of the cycling strategy for Essex was also recently consulted on.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways Infrastructure, and Sustainable Transport, said: “I’m very proud the council has been awarded a rating of two by Active Travel England, and of the Sustainable Transport team for achieving it. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team. 

“Essex County Council remains committed to ensuring all residents have a choice in how they travel, and that everyone can enjoy a Safer, Greener, Healthier future.”