Views sought on rural cycle plan

Cycling is being promoted as a realistic alternative to the car

An eight-week consultation is beginning on how to encourage cycling in a Surrey borough that claims some of the country's most beautiful countryside.

Waverley council found that only 1.73% of journeys to work are made by bicycle in the borough.

The authority now wants to develop a network of routes and improve safety for cyclists on narrow roads.

Plans can be viewed at council offices or by visiting the authority's website. The consultation runs until 21 January.

Cycle parking

Councillor Byron Grainger-Jones, spokesman for leisure, culture and tourism, said: "Despite having some of the country's most beautiful countryside and winding roads, Waverley has very few cycling routes in the borough for everyday use.

"The safety of cyclists on narrow and busy roads is a significant issue and this plan will go a long way to identifying ways to address these concerns."

Waverley Borough Council is working with Surrey County Council and the Waverley Cycling Forum on a cycle plan for the area.

The plan will also look at cycle parking in towns and at railway stations and public buildings.