New funding for cycle lanes and canal towpaths

Yorkshire has been awarded £29m to build cycle lanes and crossings and improve footpaths, the government has announced.

The funding will also help to upgrade canal towpaths and traffic management measures.

West Yorkshire has received £17m, while £6.5m has been allocated to South Yorkshire and £1.5m each to North Yorkshire and East Yorkshire.

The funding is part of a national package of almost £3m from Active Travel England (ATE), an agency sponsored by the Department for Transport, to build 300 miles of walkways and cycle lanes across England.

ATE has also published guidance to help councils ensure that local residents and businesses are consulted during the changes.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "We're already making great progress in improving walking, cycling, and wheeling in the region, and this funding will help us do even more.

"Active travel plays a key role in my plans for an integrated transport network across a better-connected West Yorkshire.

"By making it easier and more appealing to get around more actively, we're promoting healthier lifestyles, improving safety and helping to tackle the climate emergency."

Chris Boardman, National Active Travel commissioner, said: "Free exercise, zero emissions and no risk of getting stuck in traffic are benefits already being enjoyed as standard by our European neighbours and it's time we had the same life-improving choices.

"This funding will help make our towns, cities and villages happier, healthier and greener places to live."

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