People living and working in Felixstowe are invited to give their views on the availability of cycle parking facilities in the town.

East Suffolk Council, Felixstowe Town Council, Felixstowe BID and Suffolk County Council are working together to improve the cycle parking facilities in Felixstowe and the surrounding area.

Using information from the East Suffolk Walking and Cycling Strategy 2022 and local knowledge, a map of potential new or improved cycle parking has been created.

Residents, businesses, stakeholders and visitors are invited to give their feedback on the locations of the parking and suggest other suitable locations which could be considered.

Cllr Katie Graham, East Suffolk's cabinet member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism said: "Whether people use the existing cycle parking facilities for business or leisure or wish to use cycle parking in future, we welcome everyone's comments on these proposals. By providing a wider range of cycle parking options, we hope even more people will cycle around the town, which will reduce congestion and air pollution, increase parking spaces for those who need to use their cars and provides numerous health benefits to those who choose to cycle.

"There is a huge focus on cycling in Felixstowe, and across East Suffolk, as the Tour of Britain approaches. Stage Five of this exciting national race will start and finish in Felixstowe and we hope this inspires and encourages people to get our on their bikes even more."

Cllr Seamus Bennett, Mayor of Felixstowe said: "Felixstowe has a proud history of hosting major cycling events, with the Women's Tour in 2021, and the Tour of Britain in 2023. It is important that the infrastructure of the town reflects this, so that local cyclists - and potential cyclists - are supported. We encourage everyone – whether current or aspiring cyclists, or parents/carers of young riders – to respond to the cycle parking survey so that all needs can be catered for."

Cllr Alexander Nicoll, Suffolk County Council's Deputy cabinet member for Transport Strategy, said: "It's important that the public help to shape these proposals to make cycling in Felixstowe and the surrounding area more accessible and inviting. We know that cycling is good for our individual health and wellbeing, but there are numerous knock-on benefits as well, not least among them the reduced traffic on our roads, which in turn leads to better air quality. So, whether you already cycle regularly or would cycle more often if the facilities were improved, please make sure to have your say."

Kate Cain, Manager of Felixstowe BID said: "Less reliance on cars is known to breathe new life into local economies. Actual, rather than anecdotal evidence repeatedly demonstrates that transforming vehicle-centric streets into walkable and cycling spaces attracts more foot traffic, promotes longer stays, and increases customer spending at local businesses. I recently took part in place-based research on my own bike with Suffolk stakeholders and we are keen to see how the recommendations are received by local businesses, residents and commuters. Providing increased and safe cycling solutions can only be a win for Felixstowe."

Give your views on cycle parking in Felixstowe.

The consultation closes on 22 September and all feedback received will help to shape the final decisions.