The government has announced new funding that will help make it easier and safer to choose to cycle or walk if people wish. Bedford Borough Council is to receive £99,955 and Central Bedfordshire, £158.390 from the Active Travel Capability Fund to design walking and cycling schemes that are safe and are supported by local residents, underpinned by effective consultation and engagement plans. Central Bedfordshire Council will also receive £120,778 to expand local walking and cycling networks through an extension to Active Travel Fund 4.
Dedicated funding has also been issued to help councils undertake proper consultation with local communities. Together, these measures will unlock sustainable transport options for millions more people and it will particularly benefit people living in deprived or rural areas.
The schemes, funded by the government agency Active Travel England (ATE), have been designed to benefit all communities. Local authorities will work closely with residents to ensure they are attractive and inclusive for all. Safety and accessibility are at the heart of the newly funded projects to give even more people the choice to travel by walking or bicycle.
Richard Fuller MP said:
This funding is important to help ensure people can travel in the way that works best for them.
Active Travel England will work with local authorities so that schemes are delivered to enable local people to choose to walk or cycle more, and that they work for all road users and communities as a whole.
Local communities will benefit from cleaner air and reduced congestion and people will be more physically active and sustainable in their travel choices.
