Havant MP Alan Mak took a bike tour of Hayling Island on Friday with local residents to discuss ways of improving cycling routes across the island.
Cycle Hayling committee member David Mowatt took the time to explain to Mr Mak the improvements that the group are trying to make, especially in making cycling safer for schoolchildren.
He said: “Alan came to one our meetings last year, and expressed an interest in our aims to improve safer cycling on Hayling Island.
“It was a good chance to chat with Alan about our masterplan in terms of linking up most of the paths on Hayling so that most children can go to school without having to use the roads, therefore cutting down on congestion.
“I want children to be able to cycle safely to school, and it’s not particularly easy for them at the moment.”
At Mill Rythe Infant and Junior Schools, 79 per cent of pupils are currently driven to school. Cycle Hayling is aiming to convert two footpaths into shared cycleways, before linking them to the campus via the successful ‘Footpath 88’.
Mr Mak said: “I enjoyed the cycle ride, which was interesting and fun. I’m active across Hayling Island so I know the area well but it was good to see familiar sights from a bike and get some fresh air!
“Helping more children and students ride to school and college is a good idea.
“I’ll work with Cycle Hayling, Havant Borough and Hampshire County Councils and local landowners to do all we can to turn this vision into reality.”
Picture: Alan Mak MP with David Mowatt and Wilf Farrow from Cycle Haying