Local authorities in Devon have recently been allocated almost £1.5 million to boost local cycling and walking as part of the Government’s Active Travel Fund. This is in addition to the £379,250 which has already been distributed between Devon County Council and Torbay Council this year as part of the same fund.
Announced in May, the Active Travel Fund is to enable local authorities to improve cycling and walking infrastructure. The first round of funding supported the installation of temporary measures during the pandemic, while the second round is to support the creation of longer-term projects.
Devon County Council received £338,000 earlier this year and is now set to receive a further £1,283,450. Torbay Council received £41,250 earlier this year and is now set to receive a further £132,600.
The Government has stipulated that councils will have to meet tough new conditions to ensure schemes are properly thought through and the impact on other road users is closely considered.
Anthony says “I am pleased that there has been an upsurge in active travel during the pandemic and therefore welcome the Government’s investment in cycling and walking. I am supporting efforts for more cycle paths in South Devon and am working with local groups to seek approval and funding. We are blessed to live in such a beautiful part of the world; we should maximise opportunities for local people to enjoy it.”