Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 22, 2026

Purpose: This report concerns the draft Thanet Cycling & Walking Infrastructure Plan, or TCWIP, and is an update following the recent public consultation:   The adoption of the TCWIP is crucial. It will elevate the priority given to cycling, walking, and wheeling. This adoption will give the Council access to greater levels of government funding from the Department for Transport. It will ensure the network is considered in Kent County Council Highway improvements. It also provides the evidence base for policies in our new Local Plan and helps deliver the aims of the Council’s Air Quality Strategy 2026.   The consultation process was approved by Cabinet in April 2025, and was designed to gather wider public views, give greater weight to the adopted plan, and provide essential support for future funding bids. A total of 76 responses were received.

Content: Cabinet agreed the following:   1.  To adopt the TCWIP as a Council Strategy; and   2.  That the provisions of the TCWIP be incorporated into other Council strategies as appropriate.

Reasons for the decision: The adoption of the TCWIP will give a higher priority to cycling, walking and wheeling than it currently receives. It will also give the Council access to greater levels of Government funding (Department for Transport), and ensure that the network is taken into account in KCC Highway improvements. It will also provide the evidence base for policies in the new Local Plan; and assist in delivering the aims of the Council’s Air Quality Strategy (2026).

Alternative options considered: The options are to:   Adopt the TCWIP; Adopt the TCWIP, with amendments; or Not adopt the TCWIP   The recommendation is that the Council should adopt the TCWIP without amendments, for the reasons set out above.