The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) congratulates four new Metro Mayors, Helen Godwin, Paul Bristow, Andrea Jenkyns and Luke Campbell, on their election. MAG has reason to look forward to productive relationships and positive outcomes for motorcyclists.
MAG approached all the Metro Mayor candidates in the lead up to the election.
West of England.
Labour’s Helen Godwin won the electoral race to become West of England Metro Mayor.
On bus lane access Helen Godwin said, “I would implement consistent access policies across all councils, so motorcyclists have certainty as they ride throughout our region.” She also pledged to deliver an integrated transport network that “benefits all road users, including motorcyclists.”
The new mayor also told MAG that she would work with Clare Moody, Avon & Somerset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, to tackle motorcycle theft and anti-social behaviour. On the ever-present question of potholes, the newly elected mayor promised: “I’ll work with councils across the West of England to ensure that money improves our roads for all users, creating safer conditions for motorcyclists while reducing incentives for anti-social behaviour.”
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Conservative Paul Bristow won the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough contest.
On bus lane access Paul Bristow pointed out that access is the responsibility of the county and city councils. He said, “I am very open to looking at the evidence and engaging with both you and them.”
Paul Bristow was critical of the previous mayor’s Local Transport and Connectivity Plan and its “aim of forcing 15% of vehicles (including motorcycles) off our local roads in the next five years.” He said he would “scrap this target and rewrite the plan, ending the war on motorists.” He added: “A new plan should involve policies for all road users, based on constructive dialogue with local groups.”
Greater Lincolnshire
The Reform Party’s Andrea Jenkyns won the Greater Lincolnshire election.
MAG did not get a detailed response to questions from Andrea Jenkyns before the election, but she did say if elected she would be “more than happy to meet and learn more about the campaigns run by the MAG.”
Hull and East Yorkshire
The Reform Party’s Luke Campbell won the Hull and East Yorkshire election.
MAG did not get a response from Luke Campbell prior to the election. At the election count prior to the results being declared, Campbell said; “I’ll be very humbled in everyone’s response to me and will not let them down.”
MAG’s Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement said:
“We congratulate Helen Godwin, Paul Bristow, Andrea Jenkyns and Luke Campbell on their election as Metro Mayors. The Metro Mayors all have significant influence on transport and therefore outcomes for the UK’s riding community. We certainly have plenty to discuss going forward. We are looking forward to a positive relationship with each of these mayors over the coming years.”