Image: Transport Scotland
The Scottish Government says the £80m committed to active travel in last week’s budget will help increase provision for walking and cycling across the country.
The investment, which matches the figures pledged in 2017, will be used to create improved infrastructure in towns and cities, making them ‘friendlier, safer and healthier places’ for pedestrians and cyclists.
The funding will also enable the continuation of education and behaviour change programmes to encourage people to walk and cycle more.
Initiatives to receive funding will include the new Walking Employer awards, e-bike schemes and subsidised bike hire and cycle training for school children and adults.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, said: “We made a record commitment to active travel last year by doubling the £40m budget.
“We are equalling that £80m this time around to build on those improvements as we continue to develop an active nation where more people than ever before can choose walking and cycling for shorter journeys.
“These actions are key to achieving wider Scottish Government aims – encouraging more people to lead active lifestyles can improve their physical and mental health and we are also supporting our climate change ambitions.
“We have some fantastic and innovative programmes already underway in this area and I am looking forward to seeing even more as we continue to build a sustainable transport system that supports our health, environment and economy.”
John Lauder, Sustrans Scotland director, said: “Sustrans Scotland welcomes the Scottish Government’s investment of £80m in active travel budget, equalling last year’s record investment.
“Sustrans Scotland looks forward to working with our partners on the continued delivery of programmes to improve infrastructure for walking and cycling throughout Scotland, improving people’s health, improving local environments and keeping towns and cities moving sustainably.”
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