Local cycle network barriers

Purpose of the consultation

To seek feedback on proposals to review barriers across the Flintshire Cycle Network. The consultation aimed to gather views from residents, stakeholders, and specialist user groups to ensure the cycle network is safe, accessible, and inclusive for all users.

When people could have their say

The online consultation opened in January 2026 and closed on Friday 30 January 2026.

How people could have their say

An online consultation was available via the Council’s website, where residents could provide feedback on barriers located across various sections of the Flintshire cycle network. The barriers were grouped into geographical areas and accompanied by photographs to make identification easier, allowing respondents to comment only on locations they had an interest in.

In addition, public drop-in sessions were held to allow residents to speak directly with Council officers, discuss barrier locations, and share their experiences of using the cycle network. Prior to Christmas 2025, sessions were held at Deeside Leisure Centre on 28 November (10am–5pm) and 4 December (4pm–8pm), and at the Jade Jones Pavilion, Flint on 2 December (10am–5pm).

Further drop-in sessions took place on 23 January 2026 at Deeside Leisure Centre and on 26 January 2026 at Flintshire Connects, Holywell.

People taking part

Responses were received from residents and stakeholders through both the online consultation and the drop-in engagement sessions. Feedback included comments on individual barriers, accessibility concerns, and suggestions for improvements. A full summary of participation and responses is being finalised.

What people told us

The consultation generated valuable feedback from residents and stakeholders. The majority of responses supported the Council’s initial recommendations, particularly proposals to remove a number of existing barriers to improve accessibility for cyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair users, families with pushchairs, and users of adapted cycles.

Some feedback differed from the Council’s initial recommendations, highlighting specific local concerns or considerations. These locations are being reviewed further to ensure decisions appropriately balance accessibility, safety, and local needs.

What we did with your feedback

Council officers carefully reviewed the feedback received during the consultation period. The majority support for barrier removal has enabled the Council to begin work to remove several barriers across the cycle network, supported by funding from the Transport for Wales Active Travel Grant.

Initial barrier removals will take place at locations including Saltney Riverside, Shotton, Flint, and Deeside Industrial Park/Hawarden Bridge/Garden City. Locations where feedback differed from the initial recommendations are currently being reviewed in more detail before final decisions are made.

The consultation findings will continue to inform the Council’s ongoing programme of improvements to the Flintshire Cycle Network, helping to create safer, more accessible, and more inclusive active travel routes for residents and visitors.