1. Welcome & Introductions.
Chair Julian Dobson: Present: Simon Wilkins, Stephen Craven, David Senior, Derek Mark (Treasurer), John Clarke, Ray Suomi (Rides), David Sharman, Green Candidate in Greenwich Council elections May 4, Rushton Aust, Xoi Ly, Barry Mason, Anthony Austin (Secretary, Planning), Paul McQuillan. Apologies: Liz Delap, Andy Braben, John Hearns, Danuta Orlowska
2. Minutes for March approved.
3. Dave Sharman, Green Party.
Dave Sharman said Greens policy at national and local level was that cycling as a means of transport was up there alongside walking. Greenwich Council was "almost totally asleep" on the issue of promoting cycling.
Greens strategy was to focus on "small actions" such as opposing the Thames Gateway bridge. He flagged a meeting on this to be held in Thamesmead on April 11 addressed by Green MEP Jean Lambert.
Spending targets: Ken Livingstone talks of boosting spending on cycling to £20 million from £5 million. The Greens say set some intermediate targets. School journeys -- increase them by 20% over 2 years. Greenwich Council should audit what it is actually doing for cycling. Revive the cycle liaison forum which used to exist. Increase cycling events by 50%.
Our top 5 issues:
1. 20 mph as the standard speed limit for all residential streets.
Yes, there is evidence that this increases the quality of life in those streets.
2. increase the number of children cycling to school by 15% by 2010.
See above
3. Increase total cycle parking spaces at workplaces and on streets by 50% by 2010.
Yes, companies should be encouraged to buy cycles for employees.
4. parking enforcement staff to prioritise keeping cycle facilities clear.
Fines should be levied.
5.Improve access to the Thames Path.
This should never need to become an issue. Dave Sharman described Greenwich Council as "too complacent, powerful" and pledged that this would change if Greens were elected.
4. Rides.
Mayor's Ride March 26. Rushton said turnout was poor, there had been little advance publicity which appeared to have been a misunderstanding between the Council and sponsors Berkeley Homes. Ray said there were no trains running back from Erith. Barry contrasted this year's with the original ride which then-Mayor John Fahy had plugged enthusiastically.
ACTION: Greenwich Cyclists will approach new Mayor and offer to help in 2007 but say it needs better organisation.
5. Planning.
(a) Mast Pond Wharf. Barry read out an exchange between Comer Homes and their agent according to which the path would be fenced off and reopened shortly. Members said they would believe that when they saw it.
(b) Greenwich Foot Tunnel lifts due to be refurbished. Barry noted that the number of cyclists transiting the Greenwich tunnel had now exceeded those commuting east-west along Creek Road. When the lifts closed, cyclists were worst hit as having no alternative to the stairs.
ACTION: AA to write to DLR asking for permission for bikes when the lifts are closed.
6. Olympics.
Ray to mention to LCC and Sustrans the need for 02 to keep the riverside path open round the Dome during the 2012 games.
7. Maintenance Classes.
Julian will suggest dates for a new course.
8. Training.
Liz found the turnout at Woolwich Foot Tunnel on April 1 disappointing. Some members questioned whether a fee should be charged. Derek said £18.75 from cycle training grants would be spent on a cycle training manual.
ACTION: to purchase tabard jackets for adults at £2 each and for children at £6 which could be given as part of paid training courses.
9. Finance.
Derek said that as of 31.12.2005 the group's accounts held £672.88 unallocated funds and £4031.74 in grants.