The Missing Links project was created to inform policy makers about where the gaps are in the active travel network, but also as a campaigning tool. The more people take up the baton and support the closing of these gaps, the more likely it is to happen, and for work not to be derailed by noisy voices in support of the status quo.
If one of the missing links identified here affects you then here's how you can help:
1. Tell your politicians - and particularly local councillors - that you would like to see action on those missing links.
All the Dumfries councillors (in Abbey, Lochar, Nith acund Northwest Dumfries wards) and the leader of the council, as well as those who sit on the SWestrans Board, were given copies of the Missing Links publication.
Dropping a quick email in support (you can find out who your councillors are here, or you can find out who the councillors are for the relevant ward or wards in the individual missing links pages) is a quick action, as is contacting them via social media about it. Keep it positive and polite - and use examples of how the missing link affects you or your family, friends or colleagues. A personal story (and maybe a photo) is worth a thousand dry statistics when it comes to winning hearts and minds. For bonus points, attend their surgeries to talk to them in person.
2. Raise it with your community council or local development trust, if you have one.
There's a list of community councils here (not all wards have them) along with the names of the councillors and details of their meetings. Having the community council on board is really important for ensuring that the right actions are taken to close the gap and that people can be consulted properly about bigger changes (which in turn prevents pushback). It's particularly important at the moment as Local Place Plans are being developed, which in turn will feed into the Local Development Plan. Most community councils are happy to have people raise issues either in advance of their meetings by email, or turning up in person. For bonus points, get yourself on the CC or if there isn't one, look into starting one.
3. Demonstrate demand by building an active travel culture.
Tired of feeling like you're the only cyclist in the village? Showing that there is demand for improved walking and cycling routes is a key part of putting funding proposals together, so if you can organise relevant activities, that all helps to build the case. It could be something like a bike bus (where kids and parents cycle together on a route to school), a walking group, a bike breakfast, or a fun day. Invite local politicians along and show them how much enthusiasm there is - and where the problems lie. As well as building support for closing the gap, it's always easier if you have local allies to share the load. And rides and walks and other events can be a lot of fun, so it's win win.
4. Speak up in support for positive changes.
Policy makers, like anyone else, can get overly swayed by loud negative voices against change, even when there's a strong silent majority in favour of something. Positive social media posts and comments, engaging in local forums and groups, letters to the local paper, and speaking up in support of proposals can help encourage others to show their support as well. You don't need to necessarily engage the trolls directly, but share your own experiences, like or amplify the positive comments of others. You'll be surprised how many people then feel empowered to chime in too.
And finally - join Cycling Dumfries! The more members we have, the louder our voice will be. It also means we can hear from you about what you'd like to see happen, and where your particular missing links might be.
