Laura Sharman 11 May 2020

Government announces £250m emergency active travel fund

The Government has announced the largest ever funding boost to create a ‘new era’ for cycling and walking.

The first stage of the £2bn investment will be a £250m emergency active travel fund to help councils reallocate roadspace for cyclists and pedestrians.

This will include pop-up bike lanes, wider pavements, cycle and bus-only corridors and the closure of side streets to reduce rat-running.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: ‘During this crisis, millions of people have discovered cycling - whether for exercise or as a means of safe, socially-distanced transport. While there is no change to the ‘stay at home’ message today, when the country does get back to work we need those people to stay on their bikes and be joined by many more.

’Otherwise, with public transport’s capacity severely restricted at this time, our trains and buses could become overcrowded and our roads gridlocked – holding up emergency services, critical workers and vital supplies.'

Cllr David Renard, Local Government Association transport spokesman, said: 'We are pleased the Government has announced measures today to allow councils to help the country transition to the new way we will need to travel around, including to and from work.

'This new way of travelling is likely to become part of everyday life once the coronavirus measures are lifted and beyond.'

The Government is also bringing forward e-scooter trials from next year to next month.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner