Government announces further £40m to improve cyclists’ safety

The Government has today (4 April) announced £40 million of funding to improve dangerous routes and junctions, in a bid to enhance safety for cyclists.

The money will be used to improve the design and layout of roads at 78 locations across the country, with all schemes due for completion within the next 12 months.

The schemes, which are being funded through a £20 million Government grant and £20 million local authority match funding, have been selected for their positive impact on safety. The DfT enrolled a panel of experts, led by the transport charity Sustrans, to help select the schemes.

Announcing the funding, Norman Baker, transport minister, said: “Cycling is healthy and reduces congestion so it is welcome news that more and more people are taking to two wheels. Ensuring this funding is targeted where improvements will make a real difference to cyclists is just one way we are ensuring this trend continues.

“This is part of the £107 million investment we have announced in cycling infrastructure over the last year, over and above the £600 million we have invested through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund.

“We have launched a THINK! ‘Let’s look out for each other’ campaign and have made it easier for councils to set 20mph speed limits and install trixi mirrors at junctions so drivers are better able to see cyclists.”

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