The Environment, Transport and Growth Cabinet Panel considered the Three Rivers Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), noting updates on the Intalink Enhanced Partnership review and the Local Transport Plan development, and received a progress report on sustainability initiatives.

Three Rivers Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan

The panel was informed of the completion of the Three Rivers Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) and the outcomes of its consultation. The LCWIP aims to improve walking and cycling infrastructure across the district, focusing on key settlements like Rickmansworth, Maple Cross, and Chorleywood. The plan identifies priority routes for both cycling and walking, with proposed interventions such as segregated cycle tracks, improved crossings, and traffic calming measures. Local members raised concerns about the hilly terrain in areas like Rickmansworth West, the safety of certain alleyways, and the potential impact of proposed routes on traffic congestion and existing infrastructure. There was also discussion about the need for adequate funding and the importance of detailed design work to address specific local issues. Officers explained that the LCWIP is a strategic plan that identifies potential improvements, with detailed design and further consultation to follow. The panel was invited to recommend the plan to Cabinet for adoption.

Intalink Enhanced Partnership Review Update

The panel received an update on the review of the Intalink Enhanced Partnership (IEP), which aims to improve bus services across Hertfordshire. Scheme 2 of the IEP is being developed, with public consultation due to commence soon, and is scheduled for adoption in July 2026. The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) has secured £40.6 million in funding, supporting various initiatives including bus priority measures, service improvements, and ticketing reforms. Discussions touched upon the potential impact of bus franchising pilots in other parts of the county and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with bus operators. Concerns were raised about the long-term future of services like HertsLynx, a demand-responsive transport service in rural areas, and the potential impact of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on future transport governance. The panel was asked to note the report, with further details on Scheme 2 targets to be presented later.

Local Transport Plan

The panel was presented with the timetable for developing a new Local Transport Plan (LTP) for Hertfordshire, with final adoption anticipated in Spring 2027. They were also presented with the draft vision and objectives for the new LTP, which will be taken out for public and key stakeholder engagement. The draft vision emphasizes a safe, accessible, and sustainable transport system, with objectives focused on increasing active travel, improving public transport, enhancing safety, and supporting economic growth. Councillors highlighted the need to focus on non-car transport alternatives, particularly in light of increasing housing development and urbanisation in the county. The term wheel was clarified to include users of wheelchairs and mobility scooters, ensuring inclusivity.

Sustainability Progress Report

The panel received an update on the progress made in advancing sustainability across the council's operations and beyond. Key achievements highlighted included the council achieving Bronze Carbon Literate Organisation status, with plans to pursue Silver accreditation. Significant capital commitments have been made to nature recovery programmes, school ventilation projects, solar carports, and battery storage feasibility studies. Community engagement efforts, particularly with young people, have been successful, with the 'Your Tree Our Future' scheme seeing high demand. Progress has also been made in carbon reduction through energy efficiency measures in council buildings and the closure of County Hall, leading to substantial carbon and financial savings. Discussions also covered initiatives related to cleaner air, including the expansion of the school ventilation project and the review of the Air Quality Strategy, as well as adaptation and flood risk management measures. The report also detailed the ongoing work of the Hertfordshire Climate Change and Sustainability Partnership.

Other Part I Business: Potential TfL Takeover of Railway Lines

Nigel Taylor, Chair of the Development Control Committee, raised concerns about a proposal for Transport for London (TfL) to take over the operation of certain railway lines on the East Coast Main Line and the Hatfield loop line, specifically the all-stopping services into Moorgate. While acknowledging potential advantages such as increased service levels and reduced ticket prices, concerns were voiced about TfL potentially prioritising services within Greater London over those in Hertfordshire, as had happened with a previous proposal to extend the Metropolitan line to Watford Junction. Trevor Mason, Team Leader for Strategic Transport and Rail, outlined the council's draft position, which is to support the proposals in principle but with significant caveats. These include seeking a governance arrangement that allows for informal input from the county council, ensuring station improvements are delivered, and questioning the overall investment in the line and its potential impact on future housing development. The panel discussed circulating the draft letter to the Secretary of State for review, with a proviso on the tight timescale for feedback.