As part of our continued efforts to push for a safe, segregated cycle lane along the A6 between Lancaster University and the city centre, campaign member Matt Hanley reached out via email to local politicians and County Council members in January 2025. The goal was to gather political support for the project, raise awareness of the issue, and invite key decision-makers to experience the route for themselves.
What the Email Said
In his message, Matt highlighted the dangerous conditions for cyclists on the A6, a heavily trafficked and polluted road that remains the most direct route for thousands of students, staff, and residents. He made the case that a safe cycle lane would not only protect current cyclists but also encourage more people to switch from cars to bikes – helping to reduce congestion and emissions in line with Lancashire County Council’s climate emergency declaration (2019).
The email asked three clear questions:
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Do you support the creation of a dedicated cycle lane on the A6?
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Would you provide a brief public statement of support?
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Would you join us for a ride along the A6 to experience the challenges firsthand?
More information about the campaign was included (https://luclc.lp151.com), and recipients were encouraged to engage with the community directly.
✅ Who Responded
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Cllr Gina Dowding (Green, Lancaster Central)
Gina has been a strong supporter of our campaign and even joined the meeting with Lancashire County Council’s Active Travel team. She continues to advocate for improved cycling infrastructure in the district. -
Cat Smith MP (Lab, Lancaster & Wyre)
Cat expressed support for the campaign’s goals and acknowledged the need for safer cycling infrastructure. She also indicated a willingness to continue advocating for these issues at the national level. -
Cllr Rupert Swarbrick (Con, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport)
Rupert provided a formal reply outlining the County Council’s work on Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs). He acknowledged our concerns and stated they would be considered during the ongoing scheme prioritisation process. However, he offered no commitment or timeline for the A6 scheme and declined to engage directly through a statement of support or the proposed cycle ride. This was also sent on behalf of Cllr Michael Green – Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing (Con). -
Cllr Shaun Turner (Con, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change)
Shaun briefly replied to forward the email to a colleague, Scott, who he said has “Active Travel in his remit.” He did not comment on the campaign directly.
❌ Who Hasn’t Responded
We have not yet received replies from the following members of Lancashire County Council’s cabinet:
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Cllr Erica Lewis (Lab, Lancaster South East)
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Cllr Lizzi Collinge (Lab, Lancaster East)
These individuals play key roles in transport, public health, and environmental policy at the county level, and their support – or lack thereof – has a direct impact on whether infrastructure projects like ours can move forward.
🚲 Why This Matters
We believe that broad political support – from all parties and at all levels – is crucial to creating a safer, more sustainable transport network in Lancaster. The A6 cycle lane isn’t just a student issue; it’s a public health, climate, and equality issue that affects the whole community.
Our invitation to local leaders remains open: Join us for a ride on the A6 and see firsthand what thousands of people experience daily. We are still hopeful that more representatives will respond, engage, and take action.