Review date October 2021
Responsibility Alister Linton-Crook, Cycling Projects Officer
Created October 2017
Approved by SDNPA
DOCUMENT AMENDMENT HISTORY
Version
No.
Originator
of change
Date of
change
Change Description
1.0
Alister
Linton-Crook
Oct 2017
Strategy approved
0.10
Alister
Linton-Crook
Sept 2017
Minor amendments to reflect recommendations of
Sept P&R Committee
0.9
Alister
Linton-Crook
Sept 2017
Revised draft strategy to reflect recommendations of
July P&R Committee
0.8
Alister
Linton-Crook
July 2017
Draft strategy finalised for P&R Committee
0.1 – 0.7
Alister
Linton-Crook
Mar – June
2017
Internal drafts of developing strategy
CONTENTS Page
1. Introduction and background 1
2. Evidence 3
3. Key Issues for Cycling and Walking in the National Park 5
4. The Strategy for Cycling and Walking in the SDNP 7
5. Objectives and Delivery Action Plan 2017-24 14
6. Appendices 21
Appendix i: SDNPA Partnership Management Plan 2014-19 21
Appendix ii: Reference Strategy Documents 22
Appendix iii: Recent SDNPA Access Projects 23
Appendix iv: Context for the Cycling and Walking Strategy 24
Appendix v: SWOT Analysis 27
Appendix vi: South Downs National Park Authority Vision ‘Tube Map’ of
Strategic Routes and Promoted Trails 29
Appendix vii: SDNP Access Schemes Prioritisation DRAFT 30
Appendix viii: Local Authority Administrative Map 31
Appendix ix: Glossary of Terms and Acronyms 31
Page 1 of 32
1. Introduction and background
1.1 This is the first Cycling and Walking Strategy for the South Downs National Park Authority
(SDNPA). It sets out our aim and direction for the future of cycling and walking activities
and supports infrastructure coming forward in the National Park. It is written in the light of
the National Park purposes and duty and in the context of the vision, outcomes and policies
of the Partnership Management Plan 2014-2019 (see appendix i), supported by the evidence
produced in the State of the South Downs National Park 2012 report. It provides a picture
of the cycling and walking landscape and describes the roles and responsibilities of
organisations involved in managing access in the National Park.
1.2 The underlying context for this Strategy is both local and national which is detailed in
appendix iv. In April 2017 the Department for Transport (DfT) published a Cycling and
Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS) stating the ambition for England by 2040 as "We want
to make cycling and walking the natural choice for shorter journeys, or as part of a
longer journey" alongside the ambitious targets to “double cycling activity levels by 2025
and reverse the decline in walking activity by 2020”. The DfT also produced guidance to
assist and encourage Local Authorities in the production of Local Cycling and Walking
Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs).
1.3 The Strategy is also written in relation to the DEFRA 8-Point Plan for England’s National
Parks 2016, the Sport England strategy a Sporting Future: A New Strategy for an Active
Nation 2015-22 and the Public Health England (PHE) Strategic Plan 2016.
1.4 Locally, the Local Highways Authorities (LHA): Hampshire, East Sussex, West Sussex and
Brighton and Hove are responsible for delivery against the CWIS objectives, through the
development of Local Transport Plans (LTP), which set out each LHAs approach and
priorities for Transport, Cycling and Walking Strategies and Rights of Way Improvement
Plans (RoWiPs) / Countryside Access Plans (CAP). See appendix ii for a full list of referenced
strategies and plans.
Figure 1 – The Benefits of Cycling and Walking
Page 2 of 32
1.5 The SDNPA has a role to play supporting the Government’s ambitions and producing a
strategy that will respond to increasing volumes of cyclists and walkers in the National Park.
The wider benefits of the strategy, including impacts on the local economy in the National
Park, increased opportunities for improving health and well-being, air quality and volume of
sustainable journeys are summarised in figure 1 above.
1.6 The strategy will also link to other National Park plans and strategies including the
Corporate Plan, Climate Change Adaptation Plan, emerging Local Plan and the Sustainable
Tourism Strategy.
Page 3 of 32
2. Evidence
2.1 The strategy builds on evidence of previous successful delivery programmes and partnerships
that have been developed since 2011. Through the creation of a Joint Accord for the
management of rights of way and access, we have worked closely with LHA partners to
establish ways of working collaboratively and to deliver projects on the ground. The
programmes involved a range of travel initiatives and new / improved infrastructure schemes
for cycling and walking:
Two National Parks Local Sustainable Transport Fund (2NP LSTF 2012-15) £4.5m
Transforming Cycling in SDNP (Linking Communities/Cycle Ambition 2013-16) £5.1m
Two National Parks Local Sustainable Transport Fund (2NP LSTF2 2015-16) £0.7m
See appendix iii
Table 1 – Key Evidence
DfT Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy 2017:
London has seen a 79% increase in cycling between 2001 and 2011 following substantial
investment
Nationally, only 2% of trips are made by bike (14% in Germany and 33% in the Netherlands)
There were 30% fewer walking trips in the UK in 2013 compared with 1995
The average economic benefit-to-cost ratio of investing in cycling & walking schemes in the UK
varies according to source:
19:1 { Department for Health - An Economic Assessment of Investment in Walking and Cycling 2010}
13:1 {Cycling UK}
6:1 {West Sussex County Council Walking and Cycling Strategy}
Public Health England {Public Health England (2014) Everybody Active, Every Day - An evidence-based approach to physical
activity}:
Physical inactivity directly contributes to one in six deaths and is the fourth largest cause of
disease and disability in the UK costing £7.4 billion a year to business and wider society.
SDNPA Visitor Survey 2015:
74% for walking (increase from 49% - Visitor Survey 2012)
8% for cycling (increase from 6% - Visitor Survey 2012)
76% visitor journeys by car
2.2 More locally again, is the evidence derived from working closely with LHA partners,
engagement with community groups, Local Access Forums (LAF), cycle forums, national
partners, parish councils and other national parks. Additional supporting evidence for a
cycling and walking strategy has been generated by community Neighbourhood Plans, our
Infrastructure Business Plan (IBP) and our developing Green Infrastructure Framework (GIF)
which have identified a number of desired infrastructure schemes.
2.3 The access network is utilised by a range of groups and users of varying abilities and ages,
undertaking journeys for different reasons such as leisure, utility and commuting. New
schemes and initiatives will prioritise cycling and walking, focusing on leisure and utility
journeys. However the needs of all non-motorised users (NMU) including equestrians and
disabled users should be considered and where possible the access design hierarchy will be
applied i.e. access for all; access for most; access for some.
Page 4 of 32
2.4 The strategy has been developed in consultation with an internal steering group; specialist
engagement; and staff and National Park Authority (NPA) Member workshop sessions. It is
also informed by external, informal officer level consultations with Local Highway Authority
(LHA) partners, the South Downs Local Access Forum (SDLAF); national cycling
organisations and area cycle forums.
Page 5 of 32
3. Key Issues for Cycling and Walking in the National Park
3.1 Network – History and geography has shaped the access network across the South Downs.
Originally, rights of way (RoW) emerged from peoples’ journeys to work, school and
church. Today, they function primarily as recreational routes. There is a shortage of ‘family
friendly’ paths that are suitable for inexperienced cyclists and vulnerable users who prefer
traffic free, level, easily navigable trails with prepared surfaces (all weather) that are easily
accessed. Provision for mountain bikers is currently limited and under developed and, unlike
the Lake District and other upland National Parks, the terrain in the South Downs offers few
extreme challenges for cyclists or hikers.
3.2 Severance - The A27, M27, M3 and other major roads present a significant barrier to
access into the National Park for communities along the coastal fringe and Winchester.
While there are some good NMU routes such as the Downs Link, many RoW have been
severed by major roads and where crossings exist they are often at grade and considered
dangerous to use because of volumes and speed of traffic.
3.3 Highway Crossings – Safety concerns exist for NMUs (particularly vulnerable users such
as equestrians) at RoW crossings at grade, across highways. Concerns are magnified where
strategic trails and paths meet highways where speed limits are 40mph and above.
3.4 Access routes connecting people from population centres beyond the boundary of the
National Park are limited. There are particular gaps in the network from the urban centres
Winchester, Eastbourne and the coastal fringe to the south - urban south Hampshire and
the coastal strip of Worthing to Newhaven.
3.5 Connectivity of the access network from market towns, bus stops, transport hubs (rail and
bus) and gateways within and close to the National Park are sometimes limited.
Improvements needed maybe small scale such as footways connecting RoW and visitor
attractions with nearby bus stops, or larger infrastructure schemes such as new routes from
stations such as Alton or Hassocks.
3.6 New Development within and near to the National Park presents opportunities to
encourage cycling, walking and sustainable travel by designing in connections to the access
network, open space and green infrastructure (including cycle provisions). A challenge is to
ensure that these opportunities are fully realised by working with developers and through
the planning system of both the SDNPA and neighbouring Planning Authorities.
3.7 Information about access opportunities and related products (such as route leaflets,
signage etc) for users and stakeholders is often disjointed. Users seek information about
access and local facilities via a variety of means including websites, at trailside, in
communities and at destinations. The availability and consistency of information could be
enhanced to improve the visitor experience which commences with visit planning.
3.8 Facilities and amenities suitable for a range of cyclists and walkers near to the key trails are
inconsistent and could be improved, for example: cycle parking at attractions and
refreshment / food / accommodation providers.
Page 6 of 32
3.9 User Behaviour – While there is no widespread evidence of conflict or actual collision
between users across the National Park, incidences of inconsiderate or poor behaviour have
sometimes been reported. Reports include incidences of motorists passing cyclists too
closely, cyclists riding too fast past pedestrians or horse riders and uncontrolled dogs
knocking cyclists off bikes. There is an opportunity to address this issue through the
promotion of messages which promote better understanding between users.
3.10 Cycle Hire – The cycle hire network in the National Park is fragmented. There are several
areas where visitors would be unable to hire a bike and a recent study identified an
unfulfilled demand for users seeking an A to B hire where the drop off location differs from
the start.
3.11 Resource – To develop capital schemes and support community led projects to
‘construction ready’ status requires considerable resource.
3.12 Public Transport - For some users is the prime method of access and movement to, from
and around the National Park. However, recent years have seen cuts in levels of services
which impact on people’s ability to access and enjoy the National Park.
3.13 Railway Crossings - In recent months, Network Rail has sought to close several footpath
level crossings in the South Downs and in some cases, has succeeded in its application to
extinguish the right of way across the railway line on the grounds that the risk to the public
is too great. This disruption or severance of the rights of way network has the potential to
reduce access for both visitors and local users.
3.14 Tourism – The tourism offering for cyclists and walkers is under-developed, but provides
significant opportunities to support local economic growth. As users their needs differ
slightly from other visitors in terms of information, facilities and services they require from
amenities (such as: accommodation and refreshment venues), destinations and transport
providers.
3.15 Public Health – There is a growing body of inactive people with health problems and
associated conditions, especially within urban areas near to the National Park, who could
benefit from increasing their physical activity and mental wellbeing by participating in
outdoor activities. Our challenge is to use the National Park as a resource to help address
this issue.
Page 7 of 32
4. The Strategy for Cycling and Walking in the SDNP
Our Ambition for Cycling and Walking in the SDNP is:
The National Park is home to a network of largely traffic free routes providing opportunities for a
range of users of differing abilities and ages, who are using the network for recreation and daily
utility journeys.
The network is easily reached from all communities within and near to the National Park and is
well connected to public transport.
Visitors and residents enjoy excellent cycling and walking recreational facilities and information
throughout the National Park on trails, at visitor attractions, amenities and accommodation
providers.
4.1 Vision Map – Figure 2 below shows the main access network of long distance promoted
walking trails, strategic cycle routes (predominantly level / low gradient and segregated from
traffic), the South Downs Way and the key railway stations within and near the National
Park. A simplified ‘tube map’ version of the network map is shown as Appendix vi.
4.1.2 Aspirational routes for NMUs that have been identified to date are indicated by the purple
dashed lines. The map could be used to identify other missing links or opportunities for
improving the network that could be evaluated.
4.1.3 Additional routes and schemes either known or yet to be identified, may link to and
contribute to the strategic network. The economic and social benefit of each additional
scheme and how it integrates with the strategic network will be evaluated to establish
priority schemes.
Page 8 of 32
Figure 2 – South Downs National Park Authority Vision Map of Strategic Routes and Promoted Trails
Page 9 of 32
Figure 3 - The South Downs National Park Cycling and Walking Strategy
Delivery Mechanism
Strong partnership working with LHA Partners, local authorities, neighbouring LPAs, national and local organisations
Theme 1
Policy and Development
Objectives
PD1 Ensure robust
development policies are
incorporated and delivered
within the Local Plan and LPs of
neighbouring authorities
PD2 Protect and enhance
access for NMUs within major
highway schemes
PD3 Ensure new developments
connect users to the access
network
PD4 Protect railway level
crossings providing access for
NMUs and motorised users to
or within the National Park and
actively resist any proposed
closures
ES1 Increase the volume, range
and quality of access information
and visitor itineraries
ES2 Develop a SDNP tourism
offering and promotion of the
National Park as a cycling and
walking activity destination
ES3 Support businesses,
organisations and communities
to increase cycling and walking
facilities, services and user
experience
ES4 Encourage increased cycle
hire provision (inc E-bikes) at
transport hubs, gateways and
market towns
ES5 Promote the National Park
as a healthy, outdoor, recreation
facility
ES6 Support the improvement
of public transport services and
facilities into and within the
National Park
Theme 3
Economic and Social
Objectives
Theme 2
Access Network
Objectives
AN1 Raise awareness of the
SDNPA C&W Strategy with all
LHA partners, neighbouring
authorities and major
stakeholders
AN2 Develop the network of
NMU leisure paths along
former railway alignments
AN3 Add community led
access schemes to SDNP
Infrastructure Business Plan
(IBP) list
AN4 Improve the accessibility
and quality of key leisure routes
for NMUs
AN5 Reduce severance,
improve access and connectivity
(for NMUs) to employment,
green space and attractions
AN6 Improve cross-town
‘utility paths’ and commuter
routes for NMUs
Strategy Outcomes
1: A network of high quality cycling and walking routes, across the South Downs
that connect communities within and near the National Park with the
landscape, heritage, attractions, transport hubs and gateways.
2: A welcoming environment for cycling and walking activity, offering extensive
high quality tourism, access experiences and facilities within the National Park.
Page 10 of 32
The outcomes will be delivered by objectives grouped into three key themes.
4.2. Theme 1: Policy and Development
4.2.1 Local Plan
As planning authority, through the Local Plan we will establish development policies to help
strengthen the access network and encourage sustainable travel. The emerging Local Plan policies
will preserve existing access and safeguard locations for future access opportunities including
along 85km of former railway lines in the National Park. It will ensure that the access provision
within developments and connectivity to the wider access and transport network for cyclists and
pedestrians is a key priority in applications such as major, regional and local highway schemes; and
residential and commercial developments. Where possible we will seek to incorporate the ‘Roads
in the South Downs’ design principles to influence and enhance highway schemes beyond the
latest transport design guidelines which include the minimum standard specification for NMU
facilities (currently: Local Transport Note 2/08 and Interim Advisory Note 195/16).
4.2.2 Neighbouring Planning Authorities
We will work with neighbouring planning authorities particularly from the coastal fringe to
develop a ‘boundary-less’ approach to promote access improvements, connectivity and reduce
severance which is often caused by major highways, the rail network and water courses.
4.2.3 Community Infrastructure Levy (CiL)
CiL has been collected since 2016 and can be used to fund access schemes that will deliver lasting
community benefit. We will devise clear guidance and support for communities to help them
develop business cases and progress schemes locally including schemes already identified in
Neighbourhood Plans
4.3 Theme 2: Access Network
4.3.1 The National Park, partners and stakeholders have identified both strategic routes and smaller
links which will make a significant contribution to the access network.
We aim to reduce barriers to participation; improve user experience; achieve better connections
to population centres and public transport, enabling a broader audience (including under-
represented groups) to access and enjoy the National Park.
Improving the access network is a long term objective to help satisfy the current demand and
allow for increasing cycling and walking volumes. The delivery of strategic routes is complex and
will require substantial resource commitment from the National Park Authority, substantial
external funding and the support of LHA partners, organisations and communities.
4.3.2 Leisure Paths
The provision of NMU leisure paths along former railway alignments will help to overcome the
greatest barriers to cycling participation in the National Park for users who are easily discouraged,
such as low confidence users, vulnerable users and families. These provide predominantly level
paths often through beautiful and tranquil landscapes. We aim to develop and promote leisure
routes for the benefit of a widest range of users. Wherever possible we will work with LHA to
do this with the intention, in the longer term, for these routes to be formally dedicated as part of
the part of the rights of network.
The new paths will bring added connectivity to the Rights of Way network giving more
opportunity and scope for users to extend their journey to further destinations not previously
easily accessed.
Page 11 of 32
The wide track beds provide a readymade foundation for relatively low impact construction
schemes and make them suitable multi-user environments with space for all to share. There are
an estimated 120km of former railway routes within the National Park, many of which link to
existing transport hubs, market towns and urban centres on the fringe. Currently approximately
35km are in use as leisure paths leaving the opportunity to assess the merits of utilising the
remaining 85km and discuss the potential with land-owners.
4.3.3 Accessibility, connectivity and safety
We will seek to add value to the Rights of Way network by continuing to work in partnership
with disability groups and stakeholders to create ‘Miles without Stiles’ trails and improve access
through the removal of physical barriers. For example, the replacement of a kissing gate, stile or
tight chicane with a bridle gate at grade will make a path more accessible for a range of users.
Our focus will be on promoted trails and connections with communities, public transport and
attractions. Additionally we will support plans to improve user safety and reduce route severance
of the network, for example crossings and RoW junctions with highways and railway crossings.
4.3.4 Cross-town and Commuter access
Improving pedestrian, cyclist and NMU access to employment, schools, amenities, services and
public transport within the market towns of the South Downs (Petersfield, Midhurst, Lewes and
Petworth) would encourage residents to undertake sustainable utility journeys and local
commuter journeys, whilst providing attractive routes for visitors too, offering an alternative to
using a car for short journeys. We will work with Parish and District Councils, LHAs and other
local stakeholders to promote and facilitate schemes that improve sustainable access connections
between the access network and local communities.
4.3.5 Major Highways
We will work with LHAs and Highways England to enhance and develop NMU routes and
crossing points on major highways such as the A27 between Polegate and Firle, the A24 Worthing
to Washington and other arterial routes.
4.3.6 Partner support
The Authority will continue to support communities, organisations and LHA partners in the
development of access schemes that contribute towards the delivery of the PMP Policies. For
example – highway improvements, transport hubs, bus stops and the progression of transport
schemes listed on the IDP list. A framework will be developed in line with the access scheme
prioritisation (below) to help guide and support communities in the progression and development
of desired access schemes.
Page 12 of 32
Access Scheme Prioritisation
The Authority will develop a prioritisation framework to assess which access schemes to focus on and
develop to ‘construction ready’. We are currently aware of approximately forty access schemes
including the aspirational routes set out in the vision map and those identified in the SDNPA IBP
(projects eligible for CIL funding). Future schemes are likely to come forward through National Park
work with LHA Partners, stakeholders and communities, Neighbourhood Plans and LA LCWIPs.
Stage one and two of the evidence based process will be to map all schemes, identify missing links and
produce a short scheme assessment containing the objectives, connectivity and benefits (social and
economic) of each scheme. The schemes will then be evaluated against a set of criteria to establish the
scheme impact, economic and social benefit, deliverability and costs.
Priority will be given to:
Long distance NMU paths that connect populations with the National Park
Schemes that complete missing links in the strategic access network
Access schemes connecting to populations, amenities and key destinations
Scheme impact will be assessed against a set of criteria including:
Demand
Connectivity to communities, destinations, transport hubs, employment and schools
Economic and social benefit
Deliverability
Cost and timescale
The draft process is outlined in appendix vii.
4.4 Theme 3: Economic and Social
4.4.1 Tourism
Through our Sustainable Tourism Strategy we will develop the tourism offering of the South
Downs as an activity destination for a range of people. It is understood that providing a
welcoming environment for cyclists and walkers promotes higher satisfaction levels, increased
visitor spend and more frequent overnight stays delivering economic benefit to the area.
Research undertaken in 2017
1
suggests that National Parks in England have two main customer
segments:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts (families and empty nesters 35-55)
- Mature Experience Seekers (50-65+)
Both audiences are known to embrace cycling and walking activities. Families and mature
experience seekers pursue gentle leisure opportunities, with families favouring cycling and mature
experience seekers more likely to favour walking. Empty nesters will seek more challenging
cycling and walking opportunities. Further research specific to the SDNP being undertaken in
2017 will provide an in-depth picture of the existing and potential visitor base.
1
Research undertaken early in 2017 to inform a bid to the Discover England fund will be supported in summer 2017 by further research specific
to the South Downs National Park. This section of the Strategy will be updated in 2018 to reflect the outcomes of this research.
Page 13 of 32
4.4.2 Information and Itineraries
In addition to good leisure paths, the audience experience will be enhanced by the provision of clear
and easily accessed information prior to the visit including simple and informative itineraries, tailored
to the demands of the different audiences. Information pieces on the trails including interpretation
panels, way-marked circular routes linked to public transport and signage to local amenities will be
utilised to enhance the user experience and promote wider understanding of the National Park’s
special qualities. South Downs themed experiential itineraries will be developed with providers.
4.4.3 Facilities
The creation of welcoming ‘cyclist and walker hubs’ at key locations in the National Park, linking to
the access network will be supported. A welcoming culture will be developed through the provision
and promotion of cyclist and walkers facilities at gateways, amenities, attractions and destinations.
4.4.4 User Behaviour
As user levels on the RoW and highway networks increase, there is the potential for actual and
perceived conflict and misunderstanding between users to rise. To promote better understanding
between all users, inclusive messages promoting collaboration and shared ownership of the network
will be developed with LHAs and other local partners. Messages will focus on mutual respect and
awareness of others’ enjoyment with targeted interventions in specific locations as appropriate.
4.4.5 Cycle Hire
Community and/or commercially led initiatives to develop the cycle hire offering (including E-bikes)
in the South Downs will be supported including new hire outlets and A-B services.
4.4.6 Cycling Events
The positive legacy on cycling numbers and the local economy of hosting major cycling events can be
seen in the Yorkshire Dales National Park (Tour de France) and more locally in Surrey (London 2012
and Ride London). Opportunities to host, co-host or support major cycling and related sporting
events will be explored. We will investigate the value of delivering or supporting National Park
branded mass participation events on highway or RoW to raise awareness of the National Park,
generate new users and support economic growth.
4.4.7 Trail Centres
The improvement and development of adventure sites and trail centre facilities with dedicated trails
for cycling and walking shall be supported where appropriate.
4.4.8 Health and Wellbeing
The South Downs is an important natural asset offering invaluable greenspace that can be used by
communities to improve physical and mental health. The Authority will develop opportunities to
enable the delivery of local health and wellbeing initiatives in the South Downs that support the
Accord between National Parks England (NPE), Public Health England (PHE) and other stakeholders.
4.4.9 Public Transport
A well connected public transport network enables and encourages people to make a sustainable
travel choice. We will support improvements to linking routes and information / signage from
transport hubs and gateways to key routes that demonstrate a positive contribution to the visitor
experience. We will also support campaigns for improved public transport access particularly where
they provide opportunities for communities from beyond the National Park boundary.
Page 14 of 32
5. Objectives and Delivery Action Plan 2017-24
5.1 Delivery of the strategy is reliant on a structured plan of activity, most of which will require funding and resource that is yet to be identified or agreed. The Authority will continually work with partners to identify and secure funding
from various sources including Central Government, Transport funds, Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs), Public Health England, Sport England, National Lottery and commercial funds as appropriate.
The Cycling and Walking Strategy Delivery Action Plan colour coding: white = business as usual; light blue = ongoing project; blue = potential project subject to funding and resource. The plan will be reviewed annually.
PMP
Outcomes
And Policies
C&W
Object-
ive Nos
Policy and Development
Objective
Delivery Action
Yr1
Yr2
Yr3
Yr4
Yr5
SDNPA staff
resource
Potential
external
partners
Link to
corporate
objectives
Link to
climate
change
adaptation
plan
Link to
Local
Plan
Outcome 5, 6, 8,
9
Policies: 28, 30,
34, 37 and 40
PD1
Ensure robust development
policies are incorporated and
delivered within the Local Plan
and LPs of neighbouring
authorities
PD1.1 Ensure all partner authorities and Local Access
Forums within and neighbouring the National Park are
implementing the Local Plan.
Planning Policy
Development Mgt
CPM A&R
CPM PLOs
LHAs
LAs
LAFs
Highways England
2.1, 2.2
Rights of Way
and Access
Land use and
settlements
SD19,
20,
21,
22
PD1.2 Input into neighbouring authority Local Plans,
Cycling and Walking Strategies / LCWIPs
Planning Policy
Development Mgt
CPM A&R
CPM PLOs
LHAs
LAs
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 35, 37, and 40
PD2
Protect and enhance access for
NMUs within major highway
schemes in line with transport
guidelines and Roads in the
South Downs design guidance.
PD2.1 Identify and prioritise existing and potential
crossing improvements associated with A27, M3 and other
major road schemes.
CPM A&R
CPM I&E
LHAs
LAs
LAFs
Highways England
2.1, 2.2, 2.16
Rights of Way
and Access
Land use and
settlements
SD21
PD2.2 Continue to identify and champion key strategic
highways solutions that improve access and support
sustainable transport opportunities.
CPM A&R
LHAs
LAs
LAFs
Highways England
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 35, 37, 38, 40
PD3
Ensure new developments
connect users to the access
network.
PD3.1 Assess new developments both within and outside
the National Park boundary to ensure access for walkers,
cyclists and other NMUs is addressed and connectivity to
the wider network is conserved or enhanced.
Development Mgt
CPM A&R
CPM I&E
LPAs
2.1
Rights of Way
and Access
SD19,
20
PD3.2 Access and NMU design guidance to be included
within the Design Guide Supplementary Document (SPD)
to advise developers of minimum requirements
Planning Policy
Development Mgt
CPM A&R
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, and
40
PD4
Protect railway level crossings
providing access for NMUs and
motorised users to, or within
the National Park and actively
resist any proposed closures
without the provision of
suitable alternative crossings.
PD4.1 Assess the priority and importance of every public
footpath, bridleway and highway railway level crossing in
the National Park and close to the boundary.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
LHAs
LAFs
2.1
Rights of Way
and Access
SD20
PD4.2 Work with partners and stakeholders to identify
and campaign for safety improvements to be considered
and implemented by Network Rail as a preferred
alternative to crossing closures.
CPM A&R
CPM I&E
LHAs
LAFs
Network Rail
PD4.3 Ensure that any alternative routes to be
implemented are the less restrictive and most convenient
to users.
CPM A&R
CPM I&E
LHAs
LAFs
Network Rail
Page 15 of 32
PMP Outcomes
And Policies
C&W
Object-
ive Nos
Access Network Objective
Delivery Action
Yr1
Yr2
Yr3
Yr4
Yr5
SDNPA
Staff Resource
Potential
external
partners
Link to
corporate
objectives
Link to
climate
change
adaptation
plan
Link to
Local
Plan
Outcome 5, 6, 9
Policies: 28, 29
and 37
AN1
Raise awareness of the SDNPA
Cycling and Walking Strategy
within all local authorities and
major stakeholders within and
neighbouring the National
Park.
AN1.1 Communicate the SDNPA C&WS and Vision Map
of Strategic Routes and Promoted Trails to all LHA
partners, local authorities (inc. neighbouring), access user
groups and community stakeholders.
CPM A&R
CPM PLOs
Development Mgt
2.1
Rights of Way
and Access
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
SD19,
20
AN1.2 Create a web page summarising the key elements
of the strategy and keep updated status information
pertaining to the aspirational routes / projects.
CPM A&R
Comms
AN1.3 Undertake and communicate with partners and
stakeholders an annual review of delivery progress against
the SDNPA C&WS objectives.
CPM A&R
Outcome 5, 6, 8,
9, 10
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 37, 38, 40, 41
and 43
AN2
Develop the network of Non-
motorised user (NMU) leisure
paths along former railway
alignments as opportunities and
funding permits.
AN2.1 Deliver feasibility and design work and planning
permission for the Centurion Way extension from West
Dean to South Downs Way and Cocking (approx. 6km) in
preparation for construction funding.
CPM Project
Team
CPM Area
(Central)
2.4, 2.10,
2.17
Rights of Way
and Access
SD20
Priority Action AN2.2 - Evaluate and prioritise leisure
route opportunities on former railway lines and other
routes to establish resource requirements, partnership
opportunities and stakeholders.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
Planning
Priority Action AN2.3 - Pursue feasibility and capital
funding and allocate resources to undertake preliminary
work on prioritised routes.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
LHAs
LEPs
AN2.4 Establish a long term strategy for each path
delivery.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
LHAs
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 34, 37, 38, 40,
and 43
AN3
Add community led access
schemes, which support
SDNPA purposes, to SDNP
Infrastructure Business Plan
(IBP) list if they are suitable for
CIL funding
AN3.1 Support the Ouse Valley Cycle Network and local
communities in developing the Egrets Way between Lewes
and Newhaven (approx. 5km)
CPM A&R
CPM Area (East)
Sustrans
ESCC
2.1, 2.4, 2.17
Rights of Way
and Access
SD20
Priority Action AN3.2 - Develop a support and
guidance framework to assist communities in progressing
access schemes identified in Neighbourhood Plans and the
IDP list to ‘construction ready’ status.
CPM A&R
Priority Action AN3.3 - Develop a mechanism to
prioritise access schemes on the SDNPA IBP list for
resource allocation and potential CIL or other funding.
MP Projects
CPM A&R
CPM I&E
Page 16 of 32
PMP Outcomes
And Policies
C&W
Object-
ive Nos
Access Network Objective
Delivery Action
Yr1
Yr2
Yr3
Yr4
Yr5
SDNPA
Staff Resource
Potential
external
partners
Link to
corporate
objectives
Link to
climate
change
adaptation
plan
Link to
Local
Plan
Outcome 5, 6, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 35, 37, 38, 40,
and 43
AN4
Improve the accessibility and
quality of key leisure routes for
NMUs.
AN4.1 Support activities that contribute towards the ten
outcomes of the South Downs Way Management Plan
particularly improving connections to public transport,
reducing severance by the M3 and improving the safety of
highway crossings.
CPM SDW
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
LHAs
Landowners
2.4, 2.17
Rights of Way
and Access
SD19,
20
Priority Action AN4.2 - Deliver added value to LHA
Rights of Way Improvement Plans (RoWIPs) through a
Miles without Stiles/Access for All programme including
the removal of stiles, other barriers and surface
improvements.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
LHAs
Landowners
Disabled Access
Groups
AN4.3 Work in partnership with the National Trust to
extend the Devil’s Dyke path to the South Downs Way
and open access land
CPM A&R
CPM Area (East)
National Trust
WSCC
Landowners
AN4.4 Work with Natural England to develop the England
Coast Path, a new National Trail around all of England’s
coast, through the National Park’s coastline
CPM SDW
CPM Area (East)
Natural England
ESCC
National Trust?
AN4.5 Deliver improved access and information on
Serpent Trail open access land with land owners and
colleagues as part of the Heathland Reunited Project
CPM HRP
Comms
HCC
WSCC
Landowners
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 34, 37, 38, 41
and 43
AN5
Reduce severance and improve
access and connectivity (for
NMUs) to employment, green
space and attractions for
communities within and
beyond the National Park,
particularly the urban south
Hampshire and the coastal
fringe.
AN5.1 Identify opportunities in the National Park and
beyond the boundary to develop and support schemes
(including highway and on highway) that would enhance
NMU connectivity to the access network, public transport,
employment and improve user safety.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
MP Projects
LHAs
LAs
LAFs
Highways England
2.1, 2.2
Rights of Way
and Access
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
SD19,
20,
21
AN5.2 Work in partnership with neighbouring planning
authorities to develop a ‘boundary-less’ approach to
National Park access. Share the Local Plan, embed the
National Park vision and input into key development sites
within 5km of the National Park boundary.
Planning
Development Mgt
MP Projects
CPM A&R
LPAs
AN5.3 Work with the Green Infrastructure Framework
Partnership to coordinate resources on the guiding
principles and themes of GI delivery
CPM I&E
CPM L&Bios
CPM Areas
LHAs
LAs
LAFs
GI Partnership
Outcome 5, 9
Policies: 28, 29,
30, 34, 37, 38, 41
and 43
AN6
Improve cross-town ‘utility
paths’ and commuter routes
for NMUs.
Priority Action AN6.1 Identify and support
opportunities within market towns, to develop schemes
that enhance NMU connectivity to centres of employment,
services, amenities, public transport and the access
network.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
PLOs
LHAs
LAs
Community
Groups
2.1
Land use and
settlements
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
SD21
Page 17 of 32
PMP Outcomes
And Policies
C&W
Object-
ive Nos
Economic and Social
Objective
Delivery Action
Yr1
Yr2
Yr3
Yr4
Yr5
SDNPA
Staff Resource
Potential
external
partners
Link to
corporate
objectives
Link to
climate
change
adaptation
plan
Link to
Local
Plan
Outcome 5, 6, 8,
9, 10
Policies: 29, 35,
37, 38 and 41
ES1
Increase the volume, range and
quality of access information
and visitor itineraries.
ES1.1 Create easily navigable web pages containing clear
access information that is suitable for different user groups
(for example: Miles Without Stiles). {Links to ES2}
CPM A&R
CPM ST
Comms
2.3, 2.12, 3.8
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
SD23
ES1.2 Publish 150 themed walks and rides for a range of
users on a digital platform (eg: View Ranger) and embed a
map showing all routes on SDNPA website.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
Comms
ES1.3 Evaluate potential opportunities to develop circular
routes linked to public transport, hubs and gateways
targeted to specific audiences.
CPM A&R
CPM ST
CPM Areas
Comms
ES1.4 Produce a range of themed, car free itineraries
extending the pilot scheme Go South Downs.
CPM ST
Comms
Tourism
Providers
ES1.5 Review the leaflet strategy, distribution and funding
mechanism and develop a financially sustainable solution to
enable widespread availability of SDNPA access
information within 20km of the National Park
Mktg & IGen
Comms
Outcome 5, 6, 8,
9, 10
Policies: 29, 35,
37, 38 and 41
ES2
Develop a SDNP tourism
offering and promotion of the
National Park as a cycling and
walking activity destination.
ES2.1 Create destination focused online materials
promoting a range of recreational activities, including
cycling and walking.
Comms
CPM ST
2.12, 3.1, 3.2
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
Local
economy
SD23
Priority Action ES2.2 Rollout itineraries within the
Discover England Fund ‘Make great memories in England’s
National Parks and Countryside’ programme (starts Sept
2017).
CPM ST
CPM RSE
Comms
UK NPs Tourism
Providers
ES2.3 Evaluate with partners the potential benefits and
impact of hosting major cycling sports events in the
National Park.
CPM ST
CPM RSE
CPM A&R
CPM SDW
Mktg & IGen
Comms
Tourism
Southeast
LAs
ES2.4 Develop inclusive behavioural messages promoting
collaboration and shared ownership with LHA partners on
strategic routes, promoted trails and at key visitor sites
across the National Park
CPM A&R
CPM SDW
CPM ST
Comms
LHAs
SDLAF
User Associations
& Forums
Outcome 5, 8, 9,
10
Policies: 29, 35,
37, 38, 41 and 43
ES3
Support businesses,
organisations and communities
in the National Park and at
gateways to enhance cycling
and walking facilities, services
and user experience.
Priority Action ES3.1 Deliver a park wide Cyclists and
Walkers Welcome scheme in 2018/19 based on the 2017
pilot scheme for Petersfield and Lewes.
CPM ST
Comms
CPM A&R
Tourism
Providers
2.13, 3.3
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
Local
Economy
SD23
ES3.2 Explore the development of trail centre facilities
aligned to the Discover England project
CPM ST
CPM RSE
CPM A&R
CPM SDW
CPM Areas
Centre
Operators
Page 18 of 32
ES3.3 Deliver improved trailside facilities (eg: water taps)
and information (eg: directional signage to amenities and
interpretation panels) on strategic routes and promoted
trails {Links to ES1}
CPM A&R
CPM SDW
CPM Areas
LHAs
Landowners
Tourism
Providers
Outcome 5, 8, 9,
10
Policies: 29, 30,
34, 35, 37, 38, 41
and 43
ES4
Encourage increased cycle hire
provision (including E-bikes) at
transport hubs, gateways and
market towns.
ES4.1 Support the development of public bike share and
commercial cycle hire schemes where a service gap or
need is demonstrated
CPM A&R
CPM SRE
CPM ST
LAs
Hire Providers
3.3
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
Local
Economy
SD23
ES4.2 Publish in partnership with cycle hire providers,
online digital maps offering National Park themed rides
accessible from cycle hire locations.
CPM A&R
CPM RSE
CPM ST
Comms
Hire Providers
Outcome 5, 6, 8
Policies: 29, 37,
and 41
ES5
Actively promote the benefits
of the National Park as a
healthy, outdoor, recreation
facility (or green lung).
ES5.1 Develop themed health activities that provide
learning opportunities about the National Park, with Local
Authorities, Health Organisations and communities, such
as ‘Health Walks and Rides’.
CPM Areas
CPM A&R
PHE / Care
Trusts
Sports England
2.7
Community
life and
resilience
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
Local
Economy
SD23
ES5.2 Evaluate with partners the benefits and potential
revenue generation of SDNP branded events on closed-
roads and Rights of Way.
CPM A&R
CPM SDW
CPM RSE
CPM ST
CPM Areas
Mktg & IGen
Comms
ES5.3 Deliver a programme of ‘Walk the Downs’ and
‘Ride the Downs’ initiatives across the National Park in line
with the Active Access programme for ESCC 2017-20.
CPM A&R
CPM Areas
HCC
WSCC
ESCC
Local Providers
Outcome 5, 8, 9
Policies: 29, 35,
37, 38, 40 and 41
ES6
Support the improvement of
public transport services and
facilities that provide access
into and within the National
Park.
ES6.1 Work with train and bus operators to develop
themed promotions and initiatives that encourage
sustainable access into the National Park
CPM A&R
Comms
Bus Operators
Train Operators
2.2
Tourism and
recreational
infrastructure
SD19
SDNPA Delivery Teams for reference:
Countryside and Policy Mgt (CPM):
Access and Recreation - CPM A&R; Area Teams - CPM Areas (W WH C E); South Downs Way CPM SDW;
Rural Sustainable Economy - CPM RSE; Sustainable Tourism - CPM ST; Planning Link Officers - CPM PLO (H WS ES)
Land and Biodiversity - CPM L&Bio (Wo, C, Wa); Learning Outreach and Volunteering - CPM LO&V; Infrastructure and Environment - CPM I&E;
Cultural Heritage - CPM CH; Heathlands Reunited Project - CPM HRP
Marketing and Income Generation - Mktg & IGen; Communications - Comms
Development Mgt, Major Planning Projects – MP Projects, Planning Policy
Business Services, Governance and Support, Performance
Page 19 of 32
5.2 Partnership Delivery Mechanism
Successful delivery of the Strategy requires strong partnership working with our three LHAs and single
Unitary Authority Partners and with our neighbouring LHAs, City, District and Borough Councils (see
appendix viii); plus landowners and other organisations. Our aim is to be proactive through better
partnerships in identifying opportunities in advance for joint working and better planning of strategic
projects relevant to the National Park. The Accord with our partner Authorities, along with the recent
partnership delivery programmes, provides a sound foundation to build upon. Where schemes are
outside the National Park boundary but contribute towards the strategic objectives and outcomes of
the National Park, partners will lead on scheme delivery as appropriate. We will champion partner
authority schemes which contribute to the delivery of our strategy outcomes and welcome the
opportunity to put forward relevant SDNPA schemes for inclusion in partner strategies. An example of
this approach in action is the WSCC Walking and Cycling Strategy 2016-26. The strategy identifies a
number of key strategic access routes connecting to the National Park which may be delivered by the
LHA and includes key routes identified for delivery by SDNPA.
5.3 Funding
The funding environment for cycling and walking has changed in recent years. The first part of the
decade saw a period of significant Central Government investment in cycling infrastructure and other
sustainable transport initiatives with the prime aim of supporting the local economy and reducing carbon
emissions (for example: the DfT Local Sustainable Transport Fund {LSTF} and Cycle Ambition Fund).
Delivering economic growth is now the priority and the responsibility of Local Enterprise
Partnerships, where local authorities and businesses work in together to prioritise investment in
infrastructure to enable housing and commercial development. The National Park is located
within three LEP areas, which include Coast 2 Capital (C2C), Enterprise M3 (EM3) and the South
East (SELEP). The LEP’s have the ability to secure funding from the government, particularly Local
Growth Funding, to deliver Infrastructure projects, including transport, through the submission of
business cases, with the requirement that they support access to jobs and homes,
Working with LHA partners we will seek capital funding for prioritised infrastructure projects from the
Local Growth Fund (LEPs) and other sources as outlined below.
Local cycling and walking projects may also be prioritised for delivery through LHA Transport Capital
Programmes and developer contributions secured through development known as Community
Infrastructure Levy (CiL) and Section106 contributions.
Revenue funding for sustainable transport initiatives remains with the DfT. The current funding stream is
the Access Fund 2017-2019/20, which focused on supporting economic growth, access to jobs and
opportunities to maximise Local Growth Funded, Sustainable Transport Infrastructure projects. Within
the National Park, ESCC were successful in gaining Access Funding and the SDNPA will be delivering a
walk and ride programme to 2019/20 as part of the Active Access Programme.
Funding opportunities may also develop through Sport England and Public Health England / NHS for
initiatives that increase physical activity levels and promote health and wellbeing.
Other external funding opportunities for cycling and walking initiatives include Lottery funding,
charitable trusts and commercial or private sponsorship.
In the light of these changes to funding and acknowledging an increasingly squeezed public sector budget,
it is important we develop a strong framework for project development, delivery and fund sourcing for
Page 20 of 32
cycling and walking projects in the National Park. It is our aim to continue to develop strong
relationships with LHA partners, LEPs, Highways England (HE) and new partners including Sport
England, Public Health England and the wider health sector to continue to deliver cycling and walking
benefits for local communities, visitors and tourism businesses.
Page 21 of 32
6. Appendices
Appendix i: SDNPA Partnership Management Plan 2014-19
National Park Purposes
1: To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area
2: To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National
Park by the public
Duty: To seek to foster the social and economic well-being of the local communities within the
National Park in pursuit of our purposes
SDNPA Vision by 2050 Outcomes and Policies
A thriving landscape (Outcomes 1-4):
People connected with places (Outcomes 5-8):
Outcome 5 - Outstanding visitor experiences are underpinned by a high quality access and
sustainable transport network providing benefits such as improved health and wellbeing
Outcome 6 - There is a widespread understanding of the special qualities of the NP and the benefits
it provides
Outcome 8 - More responsibility and action is taken by visitors, residents and businesses to conserve
and enhance the special qualities and use resources more wisely
Towards a sustainable future (Outcomes 9-11)
Outcome 9 - Communities and businesses in the NP are more sustainable with an appropriate
provision of housing to meet local needs and improved access to essential services and facilities
Outcome 10 - A diverse and sustainable economy has developed which provides a range of business
and employment opportunities, many of which are positively linked with the special qualities of the
NP
General Policies
Policy 28 - Improve and maintain rights of way and access land, to provide a better connected and
accessible network for a range of abilities and users, and to reduce conflict where it occurs
Policy 29 - Enhance the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors by encouraging, supporting and
developing the use of the NP as a place for healthy outdoor activity and relaxation
Policy 30 - Develop 'access for all' opportunities, particularly supporting those groups currently
underrepresented in the NP visitor profile
Policy 34 - Support and enable communities to develop and deliver high quality, community-led
initiatives that contribute to the understanding, conservation and enhancement of the special qualities
of the NP
Page 22 of 32
Transport Policies
Policy 35 - Promote and enhance integrated travel provision from rail stations located at gateways
and within the NP for pedestrians, cyclists and bus travel
Policy 37 - Encourage cycling for both commuting and leisure purposes through the development and
promotion of a seamless and safer network and by protecting the potential opportunities for future
off-road cycling infrastructure
Policy 38 - Work in partnership with key partners and organisations to reduce car travel across the
NP
Policy 40 - Manage the highway network and its infrastructure to integrate it more effectively into
the landscape and reduce the impact of traffic on communities and visitors
Visitor and Tourism Policies
Policy 41 - Maintain visitor enjoyment and influence visitor behaviour in order to reduce impacts on
special qualities and increase visitor spend in and around the NP
Policy 43 - Support the development and maintenance of appropriate recreation and tourism facilities
and visitor hubs, in and around the NP, including a mix of quality accommodation, which responds to
market demands and supports a sustainable visitor economy
Appendix ii: Reference Strategy Documents
National Strategies
Local Plans and Strategies
Government DfT Cycling and Walking
Investment Strategy (draft)
Sport England - Sporting Future: A New
Strategy for an Active Nation 2015-22
Public Health England Strategic Plan 2016
Defra’s 8-Point Plan for England’s
National Parks 2016
LHA Local Transport Plans
(HCC 2011-31, WSCC 2011-26, ESCC 2011-26, BHCC 2015-30)
LHA Cycling and Walking Strategies
(HCC Cycling 2015-25, Walking 2016-25; WSCC W&C 2016-26)
LHA Countryside Access Plans / Rights of Way Improvement
Plans
HCC CAP 2015-25; WSCC RoWiP 2007-17
LHA / LA Infrastructure Delivery Plans
SDNPA Plans and Strategies
The Corporate Plan 2016-21
Partnership Management Plan 2014-19
Climate Change Adaptation Plan 2017
Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2015-20
Green Infrastructure Framework (draft)
Emerging Local Plan (due to be adopted 2017)
State of the South Downs National Park Report 2012 (SoNPR)
South Downs Way Management Plan 2015-2020
Roads in the South Downs
Page 23 of 32
Appendix iii: Recent SDNPA Access Projects
Project
Brief Description
Key Outputs
Joint Accord for the
Management of Rights
of Way and Access in
the South Downs
National Park
An agreement between the NPA and LHAs sets out how we will work together to
ensure the continuation of high quality Rights of Way and access opportunities in
the National Park.
South Downs Way
(SDW) Trail
Partnership
A partnership agreement between the NPA and LHAs to oversee the management,
maintenance, improvement and promotion of the SDW
Two National Parks
Local Sustainable
Transport Fund
programme (2NP
LSTF)
2012-15
Programme of capital and revenue schemes
promoting sustainable travel including
walking, cycling and public transport use.
Programme delivery across SDNPA and
New Forest National Park Authority
(NFNPA) shared between SDNPA, NFNPA,
Hampshire County Council (HCC), West
Sussex County Council (WSCC), East
Sussex County Council (ESCC) and
Brighton and Hove City Council(B&HCC)
£4.5m (DfT element £3.8m - Capital £1.7m
Revenue £2.1m and Partners £670k)
We delivered mainly revenue
projects with some capital elements
including: Sustainable Transport
Grants scheme, a major Travel
Awareness Campaign ‘Discover
another way’, the development of
weekend bus services and community
rail partnerships.
Two National Parks
Local Sustainable
Transport Fund
revenue extension
(LSTF2)
2015-16
Revenue programme further promoting
sustainable travel across the National Park
£709k (DfT element £683k and SDNPA £26k)
Delivered 15 schemes including a
Walking Festival; Cycle First which
generated over 1,000 participants and
26 SDNP Cycle Ambassadors; and
digital route guides on View Ranger.
'Transforming Cycling
in the South Downs
National Park'
Linking Communities /
Cycle Ambition
programme
2013-16
The scheme focussed on improving access
to the National Park from major railway
stations, including Chichester, Lewes and
Petersfield.
Programme delivery shared between
SDNPA, HCC, WSCC, ESCC, B&HCC
£5.1m (DfT element £3.8m and Partners £1.3m)
Delivered 45km of new and
improved NMU paths. We delivered
new sections of Centurion Way and
Egrets Way. Our LHA partner
deliveries included: Meon Valley Trail
refurbishment, QECP to Petersfield,
Downs Link crossing, Arundel station
path, Ditchling and Grove Road and
Lewes to Ringmer.
Centurion Way
feasibility and design
2016-18
Further feasibility, survey, design work and
planning consent for the next phase of this
shared use path along the former
Chichester to Midhurst Railway
£225k (LEP / DfT element £75k)
Aiming to deliver a ‘construction
ready’ scheme of approx. 6km from
West Dean to South Downs Way
National Trail and Cocking
Page 24 of 32
Appendix iv: Context for the Cycling and Walking Strategy
National Strategic Context for cycling and walking
Britain’s success on the cycle track coupled with significant investment by the government in recent years has
seen a notable increase in cycling activity levels.
However the provision for cycling in the UK remains below the levels of other European countries with the
exception of London where substantial investment has resulted in 79% increase in cycling between 2001 and
2011. Nationally only 2% of trips are made by bike (compared to 14% in Germany and 33% in the Netherlands)
despite an estimated 43% of UK residents having access to a bike and 38% of people choosing to drive for short
trips when they could possibly have cycled. At the same time the number of walking trips in the UK has been
declining with 30% fewer trips in 2013 compared with 1995.
In 2017 the Government published a Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS) stating the ambition for
England by 2040 as "We want to make cycling and walking the natural choice for shorter journeys, or as
part of a longer journey" alongside the ambitious targets to “double cycling activity levels by 2025 and
reverse the decline in walking activity by 2020”.
The Government’s strategy also outlined expectations for the role other government funded bodies and
departments would play in contributing towards the Cycling and Walking targets.
The Public Health England (PHE) Strategic plan for the next four years: Better Outcomes by 2020
2
-
supports work across government on sustainable travel to promote increased levels of physical activity
through walking and cycling and contribute to the implementation of the government’s sports strategy.
At a national level, National Parks England (NPE) and PHE have begun to work together to improve
access to green space and secure better health outcomes for people.
The Sport England strategy a Sporting Future: A New Strategy for an Active Nation 2015-22 contains a range
of cross-Government measures to reduce physical inactivity and spread the benefits of sport and
physical activity to everyone. It also outlines a broadening of Sport England's role to supporting and
measuring both sport and certain types of physical activity, including cycling and walking for the first
time. This removes previous restrictions relating to utility cycling and walking.
The DEFRA 8-Point Plan for England’s National Parks 2016 aims to promote innovative schemes to
support public health and realise the immense potential for outdoor recreation in National Parks. The
Plan also sets out ambitions for connecting more young people with nature and for encouraging more
International Tourism. Cycling and walking initiatives have a role to play in supporting this Plan.
Local Strategic Context for cycling and walking
The LHAs: Hampshire, East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton and Hove are responsible for delivery against the
Department for Transport’s cycling and walking objectives, through the development of Local Transport Plans
(LTPs) which set out each LHA’s approach and priorities for Transport.
Hampshire and West Sussex County Councils have recently published Cycling and Walking Strategies, whilst a
strategy for East Sussex is underway. Each LHA also produces a Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWIPs) or
Countryside Access Plan (CAP).
2
PHE Strategic plan for the next four years: Better Outcomes by 2020
Page 25 of 32
The Local Planning Authorities (LPA) have Infrastructure Delivery Plans (IDP) which identify schemes for
prioritisation and funding. New developments contribute monies in the form of Section 106 or Community
Infrastructure Levy (CiL) that can be assigned towards infrastructure schemes. The 15 District / Borough
Authorities within the National Park have Local Delivery Plans (LDPs) which prioritise local infrastructure
schemes which they deliver, that can contribute towards the objectives of the LHAs.
Whilst the responsibility to deliver against the Government cycling and walking targets rests primarily with the
LHAs, all LAs including the SDNPA are encouraged to develop Local Cycling and Walking Improvement Plans to
contribute to the Government’s ambitions. Developing a strategy that will respond to increasing volumes of
cyclists and walkers in the National Park and contribute towards the outcomes of the SD Partnership
Management Plan 2014-19 will help enable everyone to enjoy the special qualities of the National Park. The
strategy will also enhance sustainable access to facilitate enjoyment and accommodate increasing visitor volumes
and resident movements without compromising the protected landscape. The SDNPA can build upon previous
successful delivery programmes (see Table1) and continue to develop quality cycling and walking initiatives on
our own and with partners, to deliver lasting benefits for residents and visitors.
The policies in the Partnership Management Plan have underpinned National Park work to date but more recent
strategic context has emerged through DEFRA’s 8 Point Plan for National Parks and through the DfT’s CWIS.
These significant strategies and others outlined above clearly indicate the shared goal of increasing levels of
cycling and walking to benefit the economy, public health and wellbeing as a means of encouraging more
sustainable travel choices. Together these provide the momentum for the development of the SDNPA Ambition
and Strategy for Walking and Cycling.
The Access Landscape
The National Park is geographically diverse with a wide range of access opportunities including 3,300km of
Rights of Way (RoW) network (managed by the LHAs), permissive paths, open access land, Country Parks,
woodland sites and local nature reserves. The network includes the 100 mile South Downs Way National Trail,
many long distance promoted paths, cycle-ways and an abundance of quiet lanes.
Rights of Way and other routes
Across the National Park 56% of the RoW are footpaths; 37% are bridleways where access is shared by
pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians; 5% are restricted byways which excludes motorised traffic; and 2% are
byways accessible to all users including motorised. There are a significant number of other paths including
permissive paths such as those created through countryside stewardship agreements and shared use paths such
as the Egret’s Way created by grant aid and other funding which are sometimes difficult for the public to find
details of. There are approximately 35km of segregated (off highway) and surfaced paths on former railway lines
in the National Park including the Meon Valley Trail, Centurion Way and the Downs Link path. These paths are
quite level, wide and accessible, appealing to a broad range of Non-Motorised Users (NMUs), such as families,
new or less confident cyclists, and people with reduced mobility.
Access Land
Access Land makes up around 9% of land in the National Park and is available for walkers and recreational use.
Cycling is only permitted on bridleways within designated access land. More detailed information about the
rights of way network and Access Land can be found in State of the South Downs National Park 2012.
Cycle Routes
The South Downs also benefits from some National Cycle Network routes (NCN) promoted by Sustrans,
which are signed and often segregated (off highway), notably NCN23 Southampton to Winchester and
Basingstoke; NCN2 Coastal route; NCN20 Brighton to Crawley; plus regional routes, notably 82 Brighton
Page 26 of 32
towards Devil’s Dyke; and 90 Brighton to Lewes and Firle. Quiet rural lanes including some signed routes offer
links to the Rights of Way network and touring opportunities for cyclists.
Adventure Cycling
A number of adventure sites and trail centres on private land offer off-road ‘single track’ cycling for mountain
bikes (MTBs), including Rogate Downhill, Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Stanmer Park and Friston Forest.
However, it is generally acknowledged that opportunities for the more adventurous cyclists (and hikers) are
limited in the National Park primarily due to the terrain.
The Benefits of Cycling and Walking Activity
Health Benefits – Department of Health believes that mainstreaming walking and cycling offers a cost effective
way to increase health-enhancing physical activity. Physical inactivity directly contributes to one in six deaths in
the UK and costs £7.4 billion a year to business and wider society whilst physical inactivity is the fourth largest
cause of disease and disability in the UK and obesity is identified as a major problem in England {Public Health
England (2014) Everybody Active, Every Day - An evidence-based approach to physical activity}. The report recognises that
walking and cycling are good for our physical and mental health, and the built and natural environment,
particularly when designing ‘active environments’ and open spaces, impacts on people’s physical activity.
Walking and cycling for just 10 minutes can contribute towards the recommended 150 minutes of moderate
intensity physical activity for adults per week as recommend by the four Chief Medical officers {2}. This is in
addition to numerous positive health outcomes in terms of reducing the risk of conditions including
cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and a variety of cancers, as well as in terms of mental health,
stress, injury risk, health-related quality of life, all-cause mortality and productivity and reduced absenteeism at
work {3}.
{2 Start active, stay active (2011) A report on physical activity for health from the four home countries’ Chief Medical Officers. London:
DH. 3 Claiming the Health Dividend: A summary and discussion of value for money estimates from studies of investment in walking and
cycling (2014), London, DfT}
Air Quality - Poor air quality is estimated to hasten around 40,000 deaths per year in the UK. Modal shift from
motor transport (and in particular private cars) to active modes can reduce traffic congestion and reduce
carbon emissions linked to climate change. {WS WCS}
Economic - The average economic benefit-to-cost ratio of investing in cycling & walking schemes in the UK is
19:1. {An Economic Assessment of Investment in Walking and Cycling 2010 by Department for Health}
In 2011/12 a comprehensive Visitor Survey was carried out across the National Park {Tourism South East (2012) -
South Downs National Park Visitor Survey 2012, SDNPA East}. The area is a major resource for recreation (local visitors)
and tourism (those from further afield). These visits in turn generate some £460 million of income, and support
around 11,700 jobs. Recreation and tourism therefore play a significant role in the economy. [SDPMP}
Reporting on the benefits of sustainable travel initiatives such as; the Sustainable Travel Towns, Cycling
Demonstration Towns; Local Sustainable Transport Fund; Cycling Ambition Grants and the Linking
Communities Fund; the Government reports benefit cost ratios between 2:1 and 32:1, typically in the region of
5:1 and 6:1.{WS WCS}
The financial benefits accruing from health improvements from a more physically active population choosing
cycling and walking are also convincing. The direct cost of illness as an outcome of inactivity to the NHS are
around £1 billion per year while indirect costs are estimated as £8.3 billion per year {2}. Investing in walking and
cycling as a key means by which physical activity can be built into people’s lives achieves an average benefit cost
ration of around 6:1. {WS WCS}
2. https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/512895/cycling-and-walking-investment-strategy.pdf
Page 27 of 32
Appendix v: SWOT Analysis
The SWOT Analysis captures the outcomes of a series of internal workshops and external consultations
(S&W = Internal to SDNPA and the physical aspects of the SDNP; O&T = External factors that SDNPA have little or no direct control)
Strengths
Weaknesses
SDNP is a unique and varied landscape /
greenspace / countryside / historic towns / heritage
/ attractions and leisure facility
3,300km of PRoW including 1850km (56%) of
footpaths,1200km (37%) of bridleways; 160km
SDW National Trail; plus extensive highway of
quiet rural lanes
Delivery of Cycle Ambition infrastructure project
(Egrets Way, Centurion Way multi-user trails etc)
and LSTF revenue schemes
Planning Authority influence on new developments
CiL development funds collected and administered
by SDNPA (from Nov 2016)
Identified infrastructure schemes captured within
IDP / CiL list (& shared with LHA’s)
Good working relationship with LHA’s
Local produce food & drink web portal offering
Positive health and wellbeing benefits (physical and
mental) offering
Wide geographical spread of SDNP creating
multiple Authority links (4 LHAs, 1 Unitary, 11
DC/BC, circa 170 PC’s and TC’s) and
stakeholders, plus 2 Unitary and 2 BC’s on fringe
Challenging South Downs topography can be
discouraging to new, inactive / disability user
groups
Uncoordinated and under developed cycle and
walking tourism offering by SDNPA
Balancing conflict between improving / developing
path / infrastructure schemes in SDNP and
environmental / bio-diversity / cultural heritage
protection
Insufficient staff resource to deliver Cycling and
Walking Strategy
Potential financial and resource pressure on
SDNPA to take on asset liability and maintenance
of new trails
Opportunities
Threats
Large population on fringe within easy travel
distance (2million within 5km)
112,000 population within the park with 35%
within four market towns (Petersfield, Midhurst,
Petworth & Lewes)
Reasonable train links / gateways on the fringe
(Winchester, Chichester, Arundel, Brighton,
Eastbourne)
Public Health England and Sport England agendas
and funding links to everyday cycling and walking
activity
Support and direction of DEFRA 8 Point Plan for
National Parks
Popularity and growth of cycling nationwide
(increased public demand and bike ownership)
Potential tourism market: 74% (49% in 2012) visit
SDNP for walking, 8% (6% in 2012) for cycling
(2015 Visitor Survey)
Approximately 85km of undeveloped former
railway alignments
Increase of independent organised activity / charity
/ challenge events (walking, cycling, running, riding
etc)
Recognition in central, local government and NHS
of physical and mental benefits of cycling and
walking activity
Different approaches by LHAs to and priorities
within LTPs and C&W Strategies
LHAs responsible for highways and working
towards Government CWIS Targets, including
reducing KSi’s, doubling cycling levels, increasing
walking activity and walking to school.
LHAs responsible for PRoW maintenance with
increasing budget pressures
Inadequate commuter and utility cycle routes
within market towns
Lack of segregated cycle trails from urban fringe
and incomplete leisure network
Poor route connectivity to and from transport
gateway hubs
Increased severance of communities by major
routes (M3, A3, A24, A23 and A27) and rail line
crossing closures
Access to capital funding via 3 LEPs and 4 LHAs
and revenue funding via Central Government and
other bodies
Landowner co-operation and consents is often
pivotal to access network development
Under developed / fragmented cycling and walking
tourism provision in the park including cycle hire
and sustainable transport modes
Potential conflict between user groups (perceived
Page 28 of 32
and actual) and safety concerns due to increased
numbers on highways, paths and at popular
locations
Reducing public sector budgets (impact on SDNPA
resources and LHA maintenance budgets and
resources)
Service quality and changing policies of public
transport organisations
Unsustainable travel behaviour by visitors. 76%
visitor journeys made by car in 2015
Page 29 of 32
Appendix vi: South Downs National Park Authority Vision ‘Tube Map’ of Strategic Routes and Promoted Trails
Page 30 of 32
Appendix vii: SDNP Access Schemes Prioritisation DRAFT
Stages
Actions / Outputs
1
Establish a leisure
network plan
Vision map of coherent network identifying missing links, desired
route patterns, hub / gateway opportunities, attractions
Create a ‘Tube map’ of network and missing links
Create a single list of identified schemes by category (from SDNP
Vision, IDP, LHAs)
- AN2-Leisure paths
- AN6-Cross-town utility paths
- Community improvements
- Hub connections
Create a GiS map of schemes
2
Outline scheme
summary
Objective
Broad outline of scheme - potential alignment options, barriers,
partners / stakeholders, budget
Benefits - identify audiences, community beneficiaries
Connections to populations, amenities and key locations
Demand - existing data
3
Scheme impact
evaluation
Allocated and weighted
scoring system against
key criteria to establish
scheme ranking
Estimate demands - Cycle and walking flows: RATE / HEAT Tool,
Department for Transport’s Cycling Propensity Tool
Connectivity – communities, destinations, transport hubs,
employment, schools
Benefit assessment and contribution to SDNPA C&W Strategy and
access network (including economic and social)
Deliverability – number of landowners / consent status, barriers,
local community support, stakeholders
Approx. cost, timescale, funding
The top three schemes (in each category?) will be considered for feasibility work
4
Economic Study
Economic case funding from SDNPA?
Report - Benefit Cost Ratio BCR for 20yr period - including health
benefits / cost savings; CO2 reductions (WebTAG Unit)
5
Feasibility Study
Feasibility funding bids – internal, LHAs, LEPs, others
Study - route alignment, environmental impacts, barriers,
implementation priorities, budget
6
Design & Planning
Design & planning funding bids – internal, LHAs, LEPs, others
Detailed design and planning permission to ‘construction ready’
7
Construction
Construction funding bids – internal, LHAs, LEPs, others
Delivery – phases as available
8
Evaluate and Monitor
Review and upgrade
Page 31 of 32
Appendix viii: Local Authority Administrative Map
Appendix ix: Glossary of Terms and Acronyms
Accord
An agreement between NPA and LHAs for the Management of RoW and Access in
SDNP
CAP
Countryside Access Plan. A statutory requirement for Local Highways Authorities (LHA)
to produce a 10 year CAP or a Rights of Way Improvement Plan (RoWiP)
CiL
Community Infrastructure Levy is a planning charge on new developments collected by
the Planning Authority
Construction
ready
a scheme that has secured all the agreements and consents required to enable
construction to begin
CWIS
Department for Transport (DfT.) Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy 2017
C2C
Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership
DfT.
Department for Transport
DEFRA
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The Government department with
the portfolio for National Parks
EM3
Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership
GIF
Green Infrastructure Framework
HE
Highways England operates, maintains and improves England’s motorways and major A
roads
IDP
Infrastructure Development Plan
LAF
A Local Access Forum is an independent statutory body and, by law, the organisations
that they give advice to must have regard to that advice. They advise on the
improvement of public access to land for the purposes of open-air recreation and the
enjoyment of the area. The members represent the views of recreational users, land
Page 32 of 32
managers and others with an interest in countryside access.
LCWIP
Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan.
LEP
Local Enterprise Partnerships are voluntary partnerships between local authorities and
businesses set up in 2011 by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to help
determine local economic priorities and lead economic growth and job creation within
the local area. They carry out some of the functions previously carried out by the
regional development agencies.
LHA
Local Highways Authority such as Brighton and Hove City Council and the County
Councils of Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex.
LP
Local Plan sets strategic priorities for the SDNP and forms the basis for development
guidance and planning policy which will be used to make decisions on planning
applications in the SDNP.
2NP LSTF /
LSTF2
Two National Parks Local Sustainable Transport Fund 2012-15/15-16 programme.
LTP
Local Transport Plan. An overarching plan (15-20 years) of transport (highways)
priorities produced by Local Highways Authorities (LHA).
Neighbourhood
Plan
A document written by the local community that sets out planning policies for the
neighbourhood area.
NMU
Non-Motorised Users. A transport classification term to encompass all users of paved /
unpaved paths such as pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, mobility scooters.
NPE
National Parks England: the association of the Authorities which look after the 10
National Parks in England.
PHE
Public Health England: an executive agency of the Department of Health with
operational autonomy to advise and support government, local authorities and the NHS.
PMP
South Downs Partnership Management Plan 2014-19.
RoW
Rights of Way. A way over which the public have a right to pass and repass. Depending
on its status the route may be used on foot, on (or leading) a horse, on a pedal cycle or
with a motor vehicle. Although the land may be owned by a private individual, the public
may still gain access across that land along a specific route. The LHA is responsible for
the RoW network
RoWiP
Rights of Way Improvement Plan. A statutory requirement for Local Highways
Authorities (LHA) to produce a 10 year RoWiP or Countryside Access Plan (CAP).
SDLAF
South Downs Local Access Forum. A LAF (see above definition) for the South Downs.
SDNPA / NPA
South Downs National Park Authority
SDNPA C&WS
South Downs National Park Authority Cycling and Walking Strategy
SDW
South Downs Way National Trail between Winchester and Eastbourne
SELEP
South East Local Enterprise Partnership
Sport England
A non-departmental public body under the Dept. for Culture, Media and Sport
Utility path
A path or route linking to amenities and services that are used for regular ‘everyday’
type access, for example shopping or school
