Cycling on the increase in Cambridge

Cycling trips in and around Cambridge have soared by 14 per cent in a year according to a County Council survey.

The annual traffic monitoring report also reveals a 21 percent rise in cycling trips from the surrounding villages into the city.

There has been significant investment in cycling in the Cambridge area in recent years.

As one of Cycling England's Cycling Towns £9 million was invested between 2008 and 2011 to provide 14 new and improved cycle routes.

The Cycle Cambridge project was set up by local councils and partners such as the sustainable transport charity Sustrans.

The project was a finalist in the Local Transport Awards2011, and is a finalist in the Eurostar Ashden Awards for Sustainable Transport 2012 with the winners announced in May.

Steve Criswell, who is responsible for community infrastructure on Cambridgeshire County Council said: "I am delighted that the investment in cycling has increased levels of cycling further in the Cambridge area, which was a major challenge when such high levels already existed.

“Cycling plays such a vital part in tackling congestion inthe Cambridgearea to ensure that the city is able to function and keep moving.

“The County Council will continue to work towards improved safety for cyclists, and to invest in sustainable transport options to ensure that people are able to live healthy and independent lives."