– candidates’ statements received so far
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The latest from the Sidmouth Cycling Campaign of the Vision Group for Sidmouth provides statements on the theme of Active Travel:
Devon County Elections – May 2025
Four candidates are standing for election in May to the Sidmouth Ward of Devon County Council.
We asked them: “Please can you let us know what you intend to do, if elected, to encourage Active Travel in the Sid Valley.”
We have received the following replies – and will update this page accordingly when other replies come in:
Denise Bickley – Liberal Democrats
I am a great supporter of active travel. I feel that DCC could be far more brave when it comes to putting the required infrastructure in place. Currently we just need to sort out potholes as I fear for cyclists and can’t see how we can possibly encourage people on to roads, and as our bike paths do not link up effectively with anywhere else it cuts the valley off somewhat.
In a perfect world we would have buses that work for the people, like ones I have seen abroad particularly in Canada, with bike racks on the front in order for people to get around effectively. However this is so far from where we are at the moment. Even getting extra static bike racks seems to require huge effort at the moment. I am very hopeful that should I get in, and should we have a majority, we would have a council that works with other councils and our MP, and can have a comprehensive review of firstly highways and finances, and secondly climate action progress, and this should help formulate a better plan to encourage people out of cars. Wouldn’t a traffic management plan for Sidmouth also make perfect sense?
I would be grateful for any research you have had, regarding how to promote active travel better in the area, and happy to discuss it with you at some point after May 2nd if things go to plan!
With more information on her Facebook page; also here at Denise Bickley for Sidmouth in the Devon local election
Stuart Hughes – Local Conservatives.
I remain committed to championing the Sidford to Sidbury section of the Sid Valley Multiuse Trail and advocating for further Active Travel funding. This trail is a key priority in the Local Cycling, Walking, and Wheeled Infrastructure Plan, and the first stage has already received planning permission. Additionally, I will prioritize the Sidmouth section of the Otter Trail, which includes the construction of a new bridge over the A3052 to Bowd. Funding for this project will be sourced from future housing developments. To further enhance connectivity and transportation, I will support the introduction of Park & Change facilities and regular “around-town” hopper bus services.
I am dedicated to implementing the requested 20 mph zones throughout the town, including areas such as the Esplanade, Fortescue/Sid Road, Salcombe Hill, and the Temple Street local centre.
Building on the Active Travel funding I secured for the Woolbrook Road school crossing, I will pursue additional improvements. These include upgrading the Sidford Road zebra crossing to a light-controlled facility and installing another crossing near Primley Road. A safer crossing for all users at Milford Road from the Byes is also a high priority on my Active Travel improvement list.
Finally, I will continue the programme to replace pavers with asphalt, reducing trip hazards for pedestrians of all ages.
With more information at his Stuart Hughes (@stuarthughes747) / X page; also his Home | Stuart Hughes page and the Cllr Stuart Hughes | Honiton & Sidmouth page.
Suzanne Bullock – Labour Party. Awaiting reply
With more information here: Suzanne Mary Bullock for Sidmouth in the Devon local election
Basil Herbert – Reform UK. Awaiting reply
With more information here: Basil Thomas Herbert for Sidmouth in the Devon local election and here: REFORM UK Honiton & Sidmouth Branch | Supporting 🩵 Basil Herbert 🩵 for Sidmouth 🇬🇧 | Facebook
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