Active travel takes a major stride forward with launch of the Platinum Way

15 May 2023, 10:51 a.m.

Buckinghamshire Council is delighted to announce the successful completion of the Platinum Way, a transformative project aimed at promoting active travel and reducing environmental impacts. Made possible by a significant £1.4 million grant from the Department for Transport, this milestone project will boost active travel options – walking, wheeling and cycling – in Aylesbury Vale.

Formerly the Emerald Way route, the Platinum Way forms a vital part of Aylesbury's nine Gemstone Routes, established under the town's Cycle Demonstration Town status. Officially inaugurated on 29 May 2022, the project has breathed fresh life into the local transport landscape.

The revamped Platinum Way features an array of enhancements aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and the overall user experience. This includes quieter road routing, wider footways, clearer signage, additional lighting, more accessible curbs, and three new parallel road crossings which give priority to Platinum Way users over road traffic. A particularly appealing upgrade is the re-routing of a section on Fowler Road, now off-road passing through the picturesque Somerville Park.

Emphasising walking, wheeling and cycling, the Platinum Way aims to foster public health and reduce congestion. The route, stretching from the Town Centre to Aylesbury Vale Parkway railway station, winds its way through scenic locales such as Haydon Hill and Fairford Leys. It offers users seamless connections to the Waddesdon Greenway and access to local attractions like Waddesdon Manor.

To further support active travellers, cycle parking facilities are being established at two key locations along the route. The first has already been installed outside the One Stop Shop at Somerville Way, with the second, located next to the Co-op in Fairford Leys, due for completion by 5 June 2023.

Steven Broadbent, Cabinet Member for Transport, shared his enthusiasm for the project:

“The completion of the Platinum Way marks a significant achievement for Buckinghamshire Council and the local community. It is a testament to our shared commitment to create a healthier, more environmentally friendly future for the county.

“Whether using the Platinum Way for daily commuting, leisurely strolls, or cycling adventures, the local community and visitors are sure to appreciate the remarkable improvements that have been made. By embracing active travel, individuals can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits while at the same time contributing to a greener, more sustainable environment.

“The success of the Platinum Way project would not have been possible without the collective efforts of numerous organisations and individuals, which we’re hugely grateful for. Special recognition is due to Chiltern Rangers, whose tireless work resulted in the community planting of 4,000 trees, shrubs, and plants along the route, and the creation of community artwork and bird boxes.”

Looking ahead, Buckinghamshire Council plans to maximise the Platinum Way's potential, collaborating with local schools and businesses to develop travel plans promoting active and sustainable transport options to encourage more cycling and walking across the area.