Berkshire cyclists are thrilled at the proposed interactive cycle map under construction by Reading Borough Council.

Unable to give us any precise details, the Council have confirmed that the map for cyclists and walkers will be available in time for the Spring.

One design which has been compared to the plan is the new Route Plan Roll London Cycling Comfort Map.

This map gives readers all available routes across the capital, with a key marking whether they are ‘very comfortable to cycle’, ‘of mixed quality’ or ‘very uncomfortable to cycle, caution needed’.

Someone who has researched the benefits of cycling and how it could be encouraged at Henley Business School, Dr Emma Street, believes it is a great idea and one which must be executed in Reading.

She said: “I think dedicated route planning for cycling, like the Route Plan Roll for London, is a welcome development.

“Having detailed maps showing a hierarchy of routes gives people extra information to help plan their route.

“I think it’s important we think about different transport users’ individual journey experiences.

“Having more detailed, up to date and focussed data in the form of interactive maps can help empower riders to make choices that best suit them and their needs.”

Aaron Pritchard, of local bicycle shop Berkshire Bikes, agrees with Dr Street, but insists that the quality of the key is vital.

He said: “I think the town would benefit from having a cycling map, because this would allow all bike users to find the safest route for them to ride their bikes on.

“It is vital to have a key to state what sort of terrain you would be riding on.

“This would allow all riders to adjust their route accordingly to the type of bike that they are riding.

“People may decide to cycle more if they feel that cyclists are being catered for within the UK's highways."

However, with not long to go until the Spring, Dr Street feels there is still a lot that needs doing to bring the bicycle network up to standard.

She continued: “Of course, simply highlighting them on a map isn’t enough; we need well-designed, integrated and extensive cycle networks if we are to make cycling a go-to choice for a wide cross-section of society.

 “But sharing information about what is currently ‘on the ground’ is no bad thing.”