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With the campaign to become Bristol’s first ever elected Mayor comes chance to quiz the candidates on their plans for cycling in the city, courtesy of Sustrans, Lifecycle UK and Bristol Cycling Campaign and hosted by law firm Burges Salmon.
Next Tuesday (October 30th), the public can quiz the potential Mayors on their plans for cycling and public transport in Bristol – the first ‘Cycling City – which could be set to see a Bristol Metro included in a proposed City Deal, while bus lanes have been hitting local headlines, making transport a key area where votes can be won or lost on November 15th.
Candidates confirmed for the debate include George Ferguson (Bristol 1st), Geoff Gollop (Conservative Party), Neil Maggs (Respect), Daniella Radice (The Green Party), Marvin Rees (Labour) and Dr Jon Rogers (Liberal Democrats). Bob Smyth from Lifecycle UK is chairing the debate.
“The first ever elected Mayor for Bristol has the potential to be a powerful figurehead for the city and set a clear transport agenda," said Sustras’ regional director for the South West Adrian Roper.
“We saw in London earlier this year how getting around on two wheels can impact on an election. This event will provide a great opportunity for people to hear more from those who are seeking to take on this crucial role.”
Lifecycle UK Spokesperson Charlie Bolton added: “It is great that the candidates have agreed to attend the hustings next week. It is vital at this time of deep cuts to local services that the mayor retains a commitment to cycling and active travel.”
Martin Twedell from the Bristol Cycling Campaign commented: “We need strong and sustained political leadership on cycling and walking if we want make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of Bristol. We need a mayor who is not afraid to sweep away the barriers to make cycling so easy, everyone does it.”
Places will be limited, so if you’re a local bike shop, cycle advocate or interested party, it is advised to visit http://www.lifecycleuk.org.uk/bristolmayor to register as soon as possible.
If you can’t make the hustings, questions will be used from those not attending via the wonders of social media, via the hash tag #BristolMayor.
The hustings takes place at the offices of Burges Salmon (One Glass Wharf, Bristol, BS2 0ZX) and gets underway at 7 for 7.15 on Tuesday October 30th.
