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The role of national facilities officer is a new one and reflects British Cycling’s
stated commitment to developing cycling into "a largely facility-based sport in
the UK."
British Cycling’s youth focused Go-Ride programme, launched earlier this year, requires all accredited clubs to have access to at least one traffic-free cycling facility.
As facilities officer, Cockram will support and defend existing cycling facilities and identify opportunities for the development of new facilities.
Cockram, a chartered civil engineer for over 25 years, brings relevant professional experience and expertise to the role. Having worked with local government for much of his career, most recently with Lancashire County Council, he is familiar with local authority planning procedures.
He has also fulfilled a variety of roles with British Cycling on a voluntary
basis over a number of years.
"Like almost all sports, cycle racing is facility based and has enjoyed free use of the biggest facility of all, the public highway," said Cockram.
"However, if we are to attract new blood into the sport we need safe, traffic free facilities where all cycling disciplines can be enjoyed. A few already exist. My intention is to help create as many as possible in all areas of the country."
