Council to consider public consultation on cycling, walking and wheeling plans

Why it matters: The Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan aims to make sustainable travel more accessible in Ipswich, potentially reducing town centre congestion and improving air quality.

The big picture: The draft plan recommends specific proposals to Suffolk County Council for improving routes throughout Ipswich. It focuses on making walking, cycling and "wheeling" – which includes wheelchair and mobility scooter use – easier and safer across the borough.

Key details:

• If approved, the consultation would run for at least six weeks

• The plan identifies priority routes, including Nacton Road, Norwich Road, London Road, Hadleigh Road, Felixstowe Road, Woodbridge Road and Wherstead Road

• Improvements would focus on access to the town centre and Waterfront areas

• Feedback would help shape the final plan, due for Executive approval in the Summer of 2025

What they're saying: Councillor Carole Jones, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, said: "This draft Plan is our contribution to the County Council's Suffolk-wide plan to help make walking, cycling and wheeling easier for our residents and visitors."

Between the lines: The proposal forms part of a wider Suffolk initiative, with all district councils producing similar plans at the county council's request. It is Suffolk County Council that is responsible for implementing the plan.

The bottom line: The Executive will consider the consultation proposal at its executive meeting this evening at 6pm, marking the first step towards potential changes to how people move around Ipswich.