The government has published a document which sets out a long term vision for walking and cycling in the UK through to 2040.
The document, Setting the first cycling and walking investment strategy, outlines the government’s timetable and approach to developing the various elements required to deliver the first Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS).
The CWIS outlines the government’s desire to create an environment which encourages walking and cycling, and where “stepping out of the car is the norm for short journeys or as part of a longer journey”.
The government says its ambition is for streets and public places which support walking and cycling and a road network where consideration will always be given to improving infrastructure for active travel.
It promises to continue to support the eight cities in receipt of Cycle City Ambition Extension Grants from 2015/16 to 2017/18 while also continuing to support a range of sustainable transport revenue projects which support cycling and walking.
It adds that through the first Road Investment Strategy, £100m has been made available between 2015 and 2021 to improve the conditions for cycling alongside and while crossing the Strategic Road Network.
It’s interesting to note that per person on average in 2014, walked over three times the mileage than those who cycled. These are national averages, but do they take into consideration all the ramblers who walk for pleasure?
When walking and cycling to work was the norm, we were far less affluent as a body of people. Work was widespread, we no longer have that commodity. The only way walking and cycling will be “invested in”, will be in the increasing cost of motoring in the areas where such investment is intended – and perhaps elsewhere. Priced out of cars which become the alien form of transport.
Derek Reynolds, Salop.
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