Greater Manchester awarded £20.8 million to fund new active travel routes

Greater Manchester is to receive £20.8 million to fund new walking, wheeling and cycling routes as part of an almost £300 million investment by Government in active travel across England.

Greater Manchester’s funding from Active Travel England is yet to be allocated locally yet but will focus on a range of walking and wheeling projects, the strategic cycle network, travel to school, access to cycles and integration with public transport.  The funding award follows the publication of Greater Manchester’s annual Active Travel report, which showed an increase in walking short journeys, and a decrease in driving.

To mark the announcement, Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood visited Stockport yesterday (Wednesday 12 February) to see some of the good work Greater Manchester is doing to build a fully-integrated public transport system and active travel network in Stockport, such as at Stockport Interchange and Viaduct Park.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said:

“Helping more people to get the health benefits of walking, wheeling and cycling is at the heart of the Bee Network. Our plan to connect 95% of our residents to within 400m of high-quality active travel routes is arguably the boldest in the country.

 “We’re already seeing more people choose active travel over the car for short journeys. This latest funding will help us build on our success to date and demonstrates confidence – at the highest level – in the Bee Network.

“Stockport is the blueprint for what we want to deliver across Greater Manchester, focusing new homes and regeneration around excellent public transport infrastructure in our town centres.

“The more people we can persuade to leave the car at home, the more we will make the traffic flow and the roads better for everyone.”

Nationally, Active Travel England has awarded £291 million to councils across England, which aim to deliver more than 300 miles of new walkways and cycle lanes, and support 30 million more journeys on foot or by bike each year.

National Active Travel Commissioner, Chris Boardman, who formerly held the same role for Greater Manchester, said:

“Making it simple and safe to walk, wheel or cycle to schools, shops and workplaces is one of the most effective actions we can take to improve the nation’s health, economy and get to net zero, all in one.

“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.”

Minister for Local Transport Simon Lightwood said:

“Walking and cycling is an affordable way to get around and is hugely beneficial for both mental and physical health. We’re making sure local authorities can deliver high-quality and easily accessible schemes for everyone.

“Investing in our national cycling and walking infrastructure is a key part our mission for growth and today’s investment will not only provide better connectivity, but boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS, helping us deliver our Plan for Change.”

Pictured: Vernon Everitt, Chris Boardman, Councillor Mark Hunter and Councillor Grace Baynham outside Stockport Interchange.