The West of England is set to boost its commitment to sustainable, active travel with an additional £3.5 million investment in walking, cycling, and wheeling projects. This significant funding will support a range of initiatives designed to enhance infrastructure, safety, and accessibility in communities across the region.
Key projects proposed for funding include:
- £1.3 million dedicated to cycle training, maintenance grants, and bike loan schemes to encourage more people to take up cycling.
- £710,000 allocated for developing a new walking and cycling structure at Temple Island/Bath Bridges in Bristol.
- £600,000 for modifications to Prince Street Bridge, creating dedicated pedestrian and cyclist zones to improve safety and space.
- £250,000 to establish six new School Streets, enhancing safety during school drop-off and pick-up times.
- £230,000 to install 21 new cycle hangars, providing secure storage for 126 additional bikes across the region.
- £100,000 each to design improved walking and cycling routes from Oldfield Park to Bear Flat, and in Twerton including access to local schools and the RUH hospital.
- £50,000 to enhance cycling infrastructure with lighting between Bristol Parkway and Bristol & Bath Science Park.
- £50,000 to improve walking routes between Staple Hill and Kingswood with upgrades such as wider footways and safer crossings.
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These investments build on recent progress made on active travel infrastructure in areas like Park Row, Upper Bristol Road, and Kingswood Town Centre. Over 20 additional projects are currently in development in close partnership with local communities.
Helen Godwin, the newly elected Mayor of the West of England, emphasized the importance of active travel:
“Walking, cycling, and wheeling are vital for healthy, low-impact travel. Initiatives like School Streets make a real difference for families. Investing in these modes not only benefits public health but also reduces pollution and supports our green goals. With £752 million secured in the recent Spending Review for transport improvements, the West of England is poised to transform its transport system and catch up with other leading city-regions.”
Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, highlighted the local benefits:
“Nearly £600,000 from the Active Travel Fund will help us build a comprehensive active travel network. Our focus is on improving air quality, reducing congestion, and encouraging more children to walk, wheel, and cycle to school. The demand for sustainable travel options is high, and this funding supports these goals.”
Bristol City Council Leader Councillor Tony Dyer added:
“We’re investing almost £5 million to expand segregated cycleways, improve walking routes, increase School Streets, and grow the network of secure cycle storage. Making active travel easier and safer supports better health and environmental outcomes.”
South Gloucestershire Council’s Leaders, Councillors Maggie Tyrrell and Ian Boulton, reaffirmed their commitment:
“This investment strengthens our efforts to offer healthier, inclusive travel options by improving cycle routes on the A4174 ring road, developing School Street schemes, and enhancing footways and crossings between Staple Hill and Kingswood. Our focus is on people-centered travel to create vibrant, sustainable communities.”
Together, these investments demonstrate the West of England’s dedication to creating a safer, greener, and more accessible region for walking, cycling, and wheeling.