The government has made a bold move by pledging £41.6 million to improve walking and cycling routes in the north-west of England.
This substantial funding will enable ten local councils within Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cumbria, Cheshire, and Lancashire to develop high-quality bike paths and footpaths.
The investment aims to enhance safety at crossings and junctions, ultimately benefiting all those who use the roads.
National Plan for Active Travel
This initiative is part of a broader national plan backed by Active Travel England (ATE), which has committed a total of £291 million for the establishment of more than 300 miles (approximately 483 kilometers) of new walking and cycling paths across the country.
Chris Boardman, a prominent cyclist and spokesperson for Active Travel, expressed the profound impact this investment will have on local communities.
He articulated that it will lead to the transformation of towns and cities into vibrant, healthier, and greener spaces.
Encouraging Sustainable Travel
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, underscored the necessity of encouraging people to leave their vehicles at home.
He remarked that this approach would result in better traffic conditions and a more pleasant environment for all road users.
Recent data from Transport for Greater Manchester indicates a positive shift toward walking and cycling, with satisfaction levels for short-distance walking now at 57%, a jump from 52% five years prior.
This growth highlights the effectiveness of improved infrastructure in promoting active travel.
Investments in pedestrian-friendly routes and dedicated cycling lanes have played a crucial role in this progress, making active travel more accessible and appealing.
Similar initiatives, such as Yorkshire Cycling and Walking Funding, aim to replicate this success by enhancing infrastructure and encouraging sustainable transport choices.
As cities continue prioritizing such developments, the long-term benefits for public health and the environment are becoming increasingly evident.
These developments reflect a broader trend of cities recognizing the value of active travel in reducing congestion and improving air quality.
The recent £23. 1 million walking and cycling investment further underscores the commitment to expanding safe and accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
With continued funding and strategic planning, the momentum toward sustainable transport is expected to grow, fostering healthier communities and greener urban spaces.
Funding Distribution
Simon Lightwood, the Minister for Local Transport, reiterated the government’s commitment to providing local authorities with the necessary tools to execute accessible and quality initiatives for community members.
This investment will channel funds to various local authorities across the North West, including:
- Blackburn with Darwen Unitary Authority: £750,240
- Blackpool Unitary Authority: £370,422
- Cheshire East Unitary Authority: £1,052,574
- Cheshire West and Chester Unitary Authority: £1,732,225
- Cumberland Council: £1,326,001
- Greater Manchester Combined Authority: £20,836,070
- Lancashire County Council: £5,985,736
- Liverpool City Region Combined Authority: £7,514,511
- Warrington Unitary Authority: £1,022,907
- Westmorland and Furness Council: £1,099,320
Through this strategic investment, the government aims to promote active lifestyles and strengthen community connections, paving the way for a sustainable and promising future in the region.
Source: Bbc