Work has taken place already on cycle networks and safer routes to schools in the east, including from Gorey to Grouville School, Le Hocq to Le Rocquier School and from there to Le Squez.
According to Deputy Kevin Lewis, individual schemes are under development, including routes to St Saviour’s School and eastern links to outlying populations.
He said there were a number of challenges facing the eastern cycle routes, including costs and funding. There is currently £114,224 available for the next phase of work.
Deputy Lewis said: ‘As planning obligation agreements are realised, and when enough funding is accumulated, a section of the eastern cycleway is taken forward, supplemented by the department’s internal funding for sustainable transport improvements.
‘Due to this irregular funding mechanism and the challenges of acquiring land, the eastern cycle network has necessarily developed incrementally.
‘The funding currently available to support the next phase is £114,224. It is hoped that funding included in the forthcoming Sustainable Transport Policy will supplement this.’
However, the minister said that if the States Assembly adopted a new sustainable transport policy, funding from the carbon emergency fund could help to accelerate work.
He also cited a lack of an established corridor in the east, such as that one that exists to the west of the Island, as another issue that needed to be addressed.
