Marlborough Walking and Cycling Strategy Current Situation Commuter Walking and Cycling Combined travel to work or school figures by both these modes in Marlborough has declined from 30% to 14% between 1986 and 2006, whereas nationally the decline has been from 16% to 9% currently. Compared to the rest of the country Marlborough is well above average for both walking and cycling to school and work. For urban-based schools survey data suggests walking over recent years has remained relatively steady at 15% while cycling has been declining, although its popularity has increased since 2008 onward. With increasing popularity, in cycling nation-wide, active cycling clubs, groups and individuals, road cycle training and mountain bikers has significantly increased. Marlborough’s iconic Forrest Grape Ride and other events have also had a positive effect. Pedestrian and Cycle Crash Data The number of crashes in Marlborough involving both pedestrians and cyclists appears to be higher than the national average, particularly for cyclists. This can in part be explained by higher than average walking and cycling modal share in Marlborough. However cyclists’ crash data comparisons indicate twice the number of cycle crashes on Marlborough’s urban roads than the national cycle crash numbers. The crash data suggests that significant efforts need to be made to improve the safety of cyclists in Marlborough. Most accidents appear to take place at roundabouts and intersections therefore this is the area requiring most improvement. Facilities Marlborough currently has satisfactory footpath provision covering most urban areas and pedestrian crossings installed at key locations. The “Access and Mobility Forum’ provides valuable feedback to Marlborough Roads and Council on footpaths and accessibility issues, as does the “BikeWalk Marlborough Trust” regarding cycling and walking. No specific on-road cycle facilities currently exist, however most roads are low to medium volume and largely cyclists operate satisfactorily sharing with vehicles. As stated, intersections and roundabouts are where most cycle accidents occur. Some frequently used cycle routes in rural areas require further shoulder widening to improve cyclist safety in these areas and these also need to be given high priority to increase cyclists’ safety. The Taylor River floodway reserve network provides a valuable off-road corridor for walking and cycling and is used by many commuters, particularly school students. Many accessways also exist between urban streets and these are used extensively by pedestrians and cyclists. Blenheim also boasts the Wither Hills Farm Park providing over 50 kilometres of walking and mountain biking tracks and is located adjacent to the town. A sports cycling valedrome, BMX, mountain bike skills park or pump track have also been proposed by the sports cycling community. A simulated reduced scale road cycle training area has also be suggested, similar to the former facility previously located in Oliver Park. Victoria Domain and Essons Valley provide Picton with similar walking and mountain biking opportunities. Several townships or business estates are located on state highway or main roads. The rail corridor has been identified as a possible solution to provide alternative off-road cycle routes and shared paths to connect these to Blenheim. Page 2