THE forum exists so that interested members of the public can have an input into the decision-making process of creating an environment conducive to the increasing use of the bicycle as a means of transport.

The forum is attended by Councillor Alan Matthews (chairman), along with members of the public, representatives of the local cycling clubs and employees of the planning and engineers departments of the borough.

Among the issues discussed at the second March meeting, it was announced that Rob Sawyer of the engineers department was leaving. Rob was duly thanked for his contribution to the development of Burys cycling strategy after he gave a progress report on its implementation, and also a draft action plan for 2005-6. Of particular interest was the progress being made in the missing section of the Kirklees trail at Woolfold, involving a proposed bridge across Kirklees Brook which is part of the important Route Six of the national cycling network. While ground investigations have taken place, funding has not yet become available for the construction of the bridge. This funding problem means that this important route is incomplete.

An attendee also drew attention to the less than satisfactory condition of the route between Radcliffe and Agecroft - while stretches of exemplary surfacing have been completed, there are serious flaws for those who use, or might use, this route to commute to Manchester.

On the north side of Bury town centre, a good feeder to Route Six would be the path at the back of the Tesco store but no progress has been made with Tesco in getting upgrading to an official cycling/walking path.

A new edition of the Safer Cycling Routes map for Bury will soon be available. To be re-named Bury Cycling map, this splendid publication has had many users over the years.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the forum, and ways of celebrating are being explored. Anyone interested should ring Chris Wilkinson on 0161 253 5269.