Sunday, August 24, 2025
HomeLocal NewsNew route planner will help cyclists get around countryside

New route planner will help cyclists get around countryside

Families and friends are being encouraged to get on their bikes and explore the countryside.

The campaign, supported by paralympian world champion Henry Urand, aims to make cycling a more attractive and accessible option for both leisure and travel.

Para triathlon world champion and paralympian, Henry Urand, from Ashford, is a big supporter of the new campaign. Picture: Ashford Borough Council
Para triathlon world champion and paralympian, Henry Urand, from Ashford, is a big supporter of the new campaign. Picture: Ashford Borough Council

Cycle Ashford is being led by Ashford Borough Council (ABC), and will make getting around the borough on two wheels easier.

At the heart of the initiative is a new route planner, which helps riders find the best way to get between two locations with options to avoid steep hills and busy roads.

Points of interest, such as cafes, restaurants, cycle parking and other facilities are included, and can be followed live during journeys.

Cllr Steve Campkin, ABC’s deputy leader and cabinet member for climate, environment and sustainability, said: “Ashford offers safe, scenic and accessible cycling routes for all ages and abilities.

“Our hope with this campaign is that it will encourage more people to get on their bikes, support their own physical and mental well-being and take some cars off the road.

Cllr Steve Campkin hopes the campaign will encourage more people to get out on their bikes. Picture: Ashford Borough Council
Cllr Steve Campkin hopes the campaign will encourage more people to get out on their bikes. Picture: Ashford Borough Council

“The warmer summer weather is the perfect time to get back into cycling, and with our new route planner, everyone can find the best way to get from A to B by bike.”

The website also features case studies of local cyclists sharing their favourite rides and tips, and will be updated with event information and details of local cycling services.

Paralympian and para triathlon world champion Henry Urand, from Ashford, is supporting the campaign.

He said: “Riding my bike has taken me around the world to compete in major competitions, but some of my favourite routes are in and around the Ashford area.

“Growing up in the borough, there was nothing I loved more than exploring on my bike, and I still do most of my training following routes around the area.

“I hope that the Cycle Ashford campaign will encourage more people, and especially families, to get on their bikes and explore the fantastic local cycling routes we are blessed with, while also improving their fitness.”

In the first week after launch, around 100 journeys have been scouted using the new route planner.

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Most Popular

Recent Comments

Check out our best-rated gambling sites list featuring casinos not on Gamstop available in the UK.