A CAMPAIGN is being launched to improve conditions for cyclists on a major route into Royston.

The first meeting of the A10 Corridor Cycle Campaign is taking place on Tuesday, January 29.

It is being launched by county councillor Susan Van de Ven, who represents the Melbourn ward. She said the road, between Royston and Cambridge, urgently needs better provision for cyclists.

She said: “The county council has developed useful cycling maps of much of Cambridgeshire, but the A10 corridor area has not yet been mapped – reflecting the fact that there is little, if anything, to include in the way of cycling infrastructure.

“For the past decade at least, the A10 has seen no real improvements to the rudimentary off-road path that runs alongside it. Dedicated cycle links between villages are practically non-existent. All in all, there is a disincentive for people to take up cycling as a form of exercise or transport – and yet there are enormous benefits to be had on both counts.”

Cllr Van de Ven hopes the campaign will also help improve cycle routes in the villages that straddle the road.

“While we know there is little money about, and that cycle paths are expensive, we must start somewhere,” she said.

“The county council is now developing a new transport strategy for the area, and has suggested a strong cycling component. We should be ready to seize any opportunities that arise.

“One might think January a strange time to start a cycling campaign, but a wide range of people have responded to notices of the meeting, keen to be involved. This includes many people who depend on cycling short distances to work who cannot afford other means of transport.”

The meeting takes place at the Sheltered Housing Community Room, in Elin Way, Meldreth, and starts at 7.30pm. All are welcome.