Active Travel Strategy puts cycling at the heart of local transport

£12.5 million package to also secure cycling for half a million additional school children by 2012.

The 'Active Travel Strategy' has outlined plans to put walking and cycling at the heart of local transport and public health strategies over the next decade.

Strategy aims include every major public sector employer to be signed up to the Cycle to Work Guarantee and cycle parking at or within easy reach of every public building.

Also, sufficient secure bike parking at every rail station and local authorities introducing 20mph zones and limits into more residential streets to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

A £12.5 million package of investment will also secure cycle training for half a million additional school children by 2012 as part of the Government's £140 million cycling budget over three years.

The funding will be provided to Local Authorities, the Government's Cycling Demonstration Towns, Youth Sport Trust, School Sports Partnerships and cycle trainers.

Public Health Minister Gillian Merron said: "Walking and cycling are two of the easiest ways for people to build regular physical activity into their daily lives – whether it’s riding to work, walking to school or simply having fun."

"This strategy demonstrates that even making small changes can bring about significant health benefits."

Further information:
Department for Transport