Active travel proposals announced

23 February 2010

Plans to get more people jumping on their bike or putting on their trainers instead of reaching for the car keys have been laid out by the Government.

The Government wants to encourage active travel to improve transport systems and get more people to include physical activity into their daily lives.

Transport Minister Sadiq Khan announced that as part of the £12.5 million programme every child will be provided with cycle training by 2012.

Other proposals for the 10-year strategy include all major public sector employers offering the cycle to work scheme and more secure cycle parking facilities at public buildings and rail stations.

Mr Khan said: "Active travel means a transport system where walking and cycling become the norm.

"I am confident that this strategy will achieve this, making active travel a genuine and viable option for everybody."

Public Health Minister Gillian Merron said: "This strategy demonstrates that even making small changes can bring about significant health benefits."

Meanwhile, figures from the Government's sustainable travel towns project show that across three towns - Darlington, Peterborough and Worcester - there has been a slight fall in the number of car trips and increases in the number of journeys by bike and on foot.

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