As part of the "Movers and Shakers" campaign, Wheelers have met with Conservatives councillors at the Town Hall. Whilst none were current cyclists, the local politicians for the Isle of Dogs were very keen to help promote cycling across the borough.

Folding Bromptons were greeted with awe and wonder and pre- sented as one way to help the busy councillors keep up with their hectic schedule. Brompton Bicycle Limited may be able to help provide this campaign with loan bikes linked to cycle training.

Local concerns were raised focused on bike security, cycling proficiency schemes in Tower Hamlets schools and the tragic deaths of cyclists. The Conservatives had high praise for our East London Cyclist newsletter and we agreed to make sure copies were sent to the Town Hall, as well as regular briefings by e-mail. We all agreed that through cooperation of every political group in LBTH, there could be bold improvements in cycling provision, and maybe our Mayor could exchange his Mercedes limousine for a cycle? The Conservatives gave hearty praise to their meetings with Mayor Johnson, who always arrived by bike!

Peter Golds, leader of the group, has already helped with our issues about the closure of the Greenwich foot tunnel. With Zara Emily Davis and David Snowdon, we discussed how LBTH carried out strategic development of cycling, working towards particular outcomes. Questions were asked on whether recent improve- ments and local campaigns were conducted on a piecemeal basis using short term funding or whether they were indeed part of a grander plan to help Tower Hamlets residents cycle more easily and safely. How was funding targeted to help cyclist from different groups? Was there any plan to help tenants store their cycles safely?

We will report back the latest findings from Mulberry Place as we make further progress.