Cycling networks aren’t just about infrastructure; they’re about vision, usability, and connecting communities. Sefton Council has developed a robust cycling network with themed routes, strategic station connections, and a strong integration with public transport.
Meanwhile, Wirral’s Core Active Travel Network (CATN) is still struggling with public perception, connectivity, and execution. So, what can Wirral learn from Sefton’s approach? And more importantly, how can we bridge the gap between Wirral and Sefton’s cycling networks to create a truly regional cycling strategy?
Sefton’s Strengths: A Model for Wirral
Sefton has built a cycling network that serves both leisure and commuting cyclists. Some key highlights include:
Themed Cycling Routes: Fourteen routes across the borough, designed for all abilities, encourage participation and exploration. These include the Sefton Circular (24 miles of mostly off-road cycling) [Sefton Council, The Sefton Circular], the Pier to Pier route (Southport to Wigan) [Sefton Council, Pier to Pier Route], and nature-based routes like the Squirrel Route linking Southport to Formby [Sefton Council, Squirrel Route].
Integration with Public Transport: Sefton has developed cycle routes that begin or end at train stations, making multi-modal transport easier for cyclists.
Promoting Active Travel Tourism: Routes like the Marram Route and Shrimp Route in Southport help attract visitors while seamlessly integrating cycling into the local economy.
Connected Green Infrastructure: The Sefton Coastal Route and Trans Pennine Trail ensure that cycling links to major green spaces, enhancing the leisure appeal of cycling.
Wirral’s Current Situation: Disjointed and Facing Resistance
Wirral’s CATN, despite being a step forward, has faced significant public resistance [Wirral Council, Have Your Say CATN Consultation Report]. The consultation report showed concerns about cost, lack of demand, and impact on parking. The plan also struggles with key issues:
Disconnection: Key routes like Fender Lane stand alone without effective linkages [Wirral Council, Core Active Travel Network Report].
Weak Public Engagement: A common complaint is that the CATN has not been properly explained to residents.
Limited Integration with Public Transport: Unlike Sefton, Wirral’s network does not effectively integrate cycling with train stations or bus hubs.
Connecting Wirral and Sefton: A Practical Strategy
Creating a cross-river cycling network that links Wirral and Sefton would bring clear benefits for commuters, leisure cyclists, and businesses. Here’s how we can achieve it:
1. Develop a Wirral-Sefton Coastal Route
A continuous cycling route along the coast, linking Wirral’s promenades with Sefton’s coastal paths, would create a scenic, long-distance cycling corridor. This would involve:
Extending Wirral’s Coastal Promenade Routes through Ellesmere Port, Birkenhead, New Brighton, Wallasey, West Kirby to Neston.
Enhancing ferry and train integration to allow cyclists an easier way to cross the Mersey and continue their journey on Sefton’s side. This includes improved rail travel options, secure bike storage at stations, the establishment of a real and operational bike-sharing scheme, and a £2 all-day ticket for unlimited travel on the Merseyrail network with a bike or to cross the river on the Ferry.
Linking to the Sefton Coastal Path to allow riders to continue through Formby, Southport, and beyond.
2. Station-to-Station Cycle Links
Sefton has built cycle routes starting at train stations—Wirral should do the same.
3. Mirroring Sefton’s Themed Routes in Wirral
Sefton has successfully marketed cycling through themed routes, making it easy for different types of riders to engage. Wirral should introduce:
A Maritime Route, celebrating Wirral’s shipbuilding history, running from Birkenhead Docks to New Brighton, on to West Kirby and Parkgate.
A Nature & Wildlife Route, linking Wirral Country Park, the Dee Estuary, and North Wirral Coastal Park.
A Heritage Route, highlighting Port Sunlight, Hamilton Square, and historic Birkenhead locations.
4. Improving Public Engagement and Communication
One of Sefton’s strengths is how well it communicates its cycling routes. Wirral must:
Improve signage and wayfinding for key routes, including mileage markers and attractions.
Run promotional campaigns on social media and through community engagement, making cycling more visible and inviting.
Collaborate with local businesses to offer cycling incentives, such as discounts for those who arrive by bike.
Conclusion: A Regional Vision for Cycling
If Wirral wants to move forward with its cycling strategy, it needs to look at Sefton as a case study in what works. Themed routes, integration with public transport, and a clear communication strategy have made Sefton’s network a success. By connecting Wirral’s cycling network to Sefton’s and adopting some of their best practices, we can create a seamless, usable, and well-supported cycling infrastructure that benefits all road users—cyclists and motorists alike.
Wirral and Sefton have the potential to create the most comprehensive, integrated cycling network in the region. The only thing stopping us is the willingness to make it happen. It’s time for Wirral to learn from its neighbour and build a future where cycling isn’t just an afterthought—it’s the backbone of a thriving, connected, and active community.
📢 Want to learn more about the future of cycling in Wirral?
Read our Future of Cycling On Wirral whitepaper at www.inkbyte.co.uk/cycling to explore better alternatives for road safety, infrastructure, and active travel planning.
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