Cycle & nature path

At the recent AGM of the Seven Kings & Newbury Park Resident's Association, members were updated on the delayed cycle and nature path for Seven Kings Park and Happy Valley. Our understanding is that funding is in place for this exciting new development, that outstanding legal issues have nearly been resolved and that work on the initiative may recommence shortly.

As a result, we have just written to the local press to say that:

"There is real support among residents for the delayed cycle and nature path for Seven Kings Park and Happy Valley and, given the length of delay, we urge all the agencies involved to ensure that work on this initiative restarts as a matter of urgency.

We also ask that, in contrast to the lack of information that has been provided about the reasons for the delay, local residents are given full information about the initiative and its timescale.

This project will be a positive development for the Seven Kings and Newbury Park areas and residents are impatient to see it realised and to enjoy its benefits."

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The Low Anthem - Oh My God, Charlie Darwin.

Movers & Shakers (2)

'What is vitally important is that we do encourage a national strategy to get out and ride bikes. It is a great way to keep fit, a great way to have a good time. It is vital that the Government gives a lead for a national policy. I do intend to speak to the Secretary of State for Transport. It is vital to have a strategy to help cycling and actually to have resources to put things in place like this brilliant facility that we have in my constituency in the London Borough of Redbridge.You have my full support. I do intend coming back here. I hope that you go from strength to strength and that more and more people cycle in Redbridge.' Lee Scott MP, Ilford North

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Athlete - Vehicles & Animals.

Movers & Shakers

Lee Scott MP talking with other participants

On the start line for the 'Movers & Shakers' cycle ride

Chris Elliott (left) one of the LCC organisers

Councillor Keith Prince, Leader of Redbridge Council, speaking after the ride

Elwin Cockett, Archdeacon of West Ham

Yesterday I was at the new Redbridge Cycling Centre, with its stunning views across London and links with the London Olympic site for 'Movers and Shakers', an initiative by local branches of London Cycling Campaign in which people of influence within the community act as role models to demonstrate that cycling can be for everyone.

'Movers and Shakers' culminated in yesterday's public event at the RCC, on Forest Road, Ilford IG6 3, beside Hainault Lodge Nature Reserve. 'Movers and Shakers' present included, among others:

• Richard Allen, Head of Business Planning, Barnardo's Children's services;
• Ravi Bhanot, organiser of the Sewa Week (Hindu) Ilford Charity Bike Ride;
• Paul Canal, Chair of Wanstead & Snaresbrook Ward Conservatives;
• Chris Carter, Editor, 'Ilford Recorder';
• James Cleverly, Mayor's Ambassador for Young People, GLA member Bexley & Bromley;
• Revd. Elwin Cockett, Archdeacon of West Ham;
• Chief Inspector Paige Kimberley, Met. Police;
• Cllr. Keith Prince, Leader of Redbridge Council; and
• Lee Scott, MP Ilford North.

The 'Movers & Shakers' tried out the Upper and full tracks at the RCC as part of their cycle ride before speeches and a buffet lunch. Lee Scott MP spoke about national cycle policy, Roger Evans, GLA member, about the Mayor's cycle policy, Chief Inspector Paige Kimberley spoke about cycling safely and Cllr. Keith Prince, Leader of Redbridge Council, about encouraging cycling in Redbridge.

I managed three circuits of the Upper Track and one of the full track (just!), on top of cycling to and from the RCC. All of which was probably the most exercise I've had in a long time! But well worth it to play a part in encouraging others to cycle and in order to see the excellent facilities at the RCC.

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Pink Floyd - Bike.