Government announce more funding for active travel schemes

This report by Meridian's Kit Bradshaw.

The message - Get on your bike - has been used by several politicians over the years - with varying degrees of success.

Now the Government has announced a 30 per cent increase in funding for so-called 'active travel' schemes - which should mean more footpaths and cycle lanes.

At Deal in Kent this fleet of electric bicycles is now available to hire from the local leisure centre. The scheme is part of an environmental push by the town council.

Councillor Sue Beer from Deal Town Council says people are keen to travel in a green way and it's good for the economy.

At 40 pounds a day - they're unlikely to be used for anyone's daily commute - but will allow some to try an e-bike for the first time. 

The county council is providing E-cycle training sessions, using central Government funding for 'active travel'.

Around half of all journeys we make are less than 5 miles in length, which is why the Government wants to encourage us to walk or cycle rather than jumping in our cars.

Ministers have also said they'll make changes to the Highway Code, to give pedestrians and cyclists better protection.

It would see those riding a bike, or on foot, given priority over cars at junctions.  The transport secretary hopes it'll steer many away from their vehicles. 

Grant Shapps MP, Transport Secretary

It'll also mean a 30 per cent increase in the budget available for new walking and cycle routes. 

But some of the new bike lanes introduced during the pandemic - such as those in Brighton & Hove - have been controversial.

Laura King, Friends of Brighton and Hove Citizens' Action Group, says more needs to be done.

Last year, lockdown changed the way we travelled overnight - but with the economy reopening, ministers hope many of us will continue to opt for the pavement, or the cycle path, over the open road.