Getting more people walking and cycling is so important. It’s a cheaper and greener way to travel and better for our health.
There’s never been a better time to encourage active travel, so I’m pleased the Government has announced a £2 billion fund to make life better for cyclists and walkers.
During the coronavirus, millions of people have discovered the benefits of active travel. By cycling or walking, we’ve been able to enjoy this remarkably warm spring whilst sticking to the guidelines.
But our roads are often not suitable for people on two wheels, and pavements are too small to walk on safely – particularly people in wheelchairs or with buggies.
That’s why the Government is making £250 million available to councils in England to create pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements, safer junctions, and cycle and bus-only corridors.
This is the first stage of a £2 billion investment, and part of the Government's £5 billion fund for cycling and buses announced in February.
The funding is combined with updated statutory guidance, which will tell councils to reallocate road space for significantly increased numbers of cyclists and pedestrians.
I’m working hard to make sure these measures benefit people in Kent.
UPDATE:
Kent County Council received £1.6 million in the first allocations from the Active Travel Fund, and £6.1 million in the second round of funding.
