Local authorities in the West Midlands are poised to receive a noteworthy £30.9 million in government funding aimed at improving facilities for walking, wheeling, and cycling.
This funding is part of a broader national program, spearheaded by Active Travel England (ATE), which has earmarked a total of £291 million for enhancing active transport across the country.
Funding Allocation
The financial boost is designed to enable local councils to develop high-quality cycling routes, pedestrian pathways, and to enhance safety at crossings and junctions.
ATE highlights the importance of community input, offering local authorities the resources to incorporate feedback from residents and businesses during the planning and implementation stages of these projects.
- Herefordshire Council will get £492,894;
- Shropshire Council will receive £853,343;
- Staffordshire County Council’s share is £2,306,977;
- Stoke-on-Trent City Council will gain £678,112;
- Telford and Wrekin Council is allocated £899,976;
- Warwickshire County Council receives £2,901,513;
- The West Midlands Combined Authority will obtain £21,182,890;
- Worcestershire County Council’s total is £1,589,781.
Community Impact
Chris Boardman, serving as the National Active Travel Commissioner, underlined the significant impact these initiatives could have.
He emphasized that creating accessible routes to vital locations, such as schools, shops, and workplaces, is essential for cultivating a healthier population and fostering economic growth while striving for net-zero carbon emissions.
Boardman also shared his views on how these enhancements could enliven towns, cities, and villages, making them more inviting and sustainable in the process.
ATE anticipates that this national funding effort will pave the way for over 300 miles of new pathways and cycling lanes throughout the UK.
Health and Economic Benefits
The initiative aims not only to promote cycling and walking but also to encourage an additional 30 million journeys each year via these modes of transport.
Notably, over 20 million of these will likely be school trips where children are accompanied by parents.
The anticipated uptick in active travel is projected to improve public health, reduce sick days, and ultimately ease the strain on the NHS.
Furthermore, it should stimulate the local economy and benefit community businesses.
Source: Bbc