More than 265 schemes, in 60 areas, will receive a share of £200m in Government funding to improve walking and cycling routes – but no low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) have been included.
The DfT says the funding, announced on 19 May, will deliver a range of schemes across the country, including 121 miles of new cycle track, 77 miles of new paths and greenways and initiatives to make streets safer around 130 schools.
It estimates the funding will generate up to 16 million extra walking and cycling trips a year.
Mark Harper, transport secretary, said: “We want to make sure everyone across the country can choose cheaper, greener and healthier travel while we continue to support our local businesses and grow the economy.
“This £200 million investment will improve road safety, ease congestion and ultimately improve the health and wellbeing of the millions of people choosing active travel.”
The DfT says winning projects have demonstrated they provide people with attractive choices to use cycling and walking for local journeys, and do not include any LTN schemes.
The reason why has not been outlined.
Successful applicants include Barnstaple and Ilfracombe in Devon, where an unused railway track will be converted into a walking and cycling route to connect rural communities.
Chris Boardman, national active travel commissioner, said: “By giving millions of people the freedom of choice to walk, wheel or cycle for everyday trips, this funding will help us improve public health, tackle climate change and give hundreds of thousands of children the independence to travel safely under their own steam.
“Now our focus is working with councils to get these schemes built swiftly. We’ll be working together to ensure the projects are well-designed and effective, so that they bring maximum benefits to communities and help improve lives nationwide.”
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