An increasing number of cyclists could be using our roads in the future with a draft Bicycle Strategy out for consultation.

Local people will have their say when a number of consultation events are held around Northern Ireland including Fermanagh during October and November before the closing date for submissions on Friday, November 21.

The Department for Regional Development is behind the vision for cycling, which outlines the kind of cycling community they would like in 25 years time.

“To establish a cycling culture in Northern Ireland to give people the freedom and confidence to travel by bicycle, and where all road users can safely share space with mutual respect,” said DRD Minister, Danny Kennedy.

The Department says cycling can make a significant contribution towards the five Programme for Government priorities.

“We want this society to be a community which values, nurtures and celebrates cycling in all its forms – on-road, off-road, commuter, recreation, journeys to education etc. We aspire to become more like our European neighbours who have embraced the bicycle as simply ‘another mode’ of transport that is accessible, attractive, safe and desirable.” A special one-day seminar, “Northern Ireland - Changing Gear” takes place in Belfast on October 16 when it will be totally dedicated to cycling issues.

The Minister said: “Over recent months I have committed to delivering a cycling revolution in Northern Ireland.

“Part of that goal is to establish a cycling culture in Northern Ireland that gives everyone the freedom and confidence to travel by bicycle on roads that, with mutual respect, are shared by all road users.

A copy of the draft Cycling Strategy can be downloaded from http://www.drdni.gov.uk/index/publications/publications-details.htm?docid=9903