Safer cycle routes on track thanks to government boost

Cyclists across England are set to benefit from safer roads thanks to a £40 million boost to improve dangerous routes and junctions, Transport Minister Norman Baker has announced.

The money will be made available to improve the design and layout of roads at 78 locations across the country, with all schemes due for completion within the next 12 months.

Norman Baker said: "Cycling is healthy and reduces congestion so it is welcome news that more and more people are taking to 2 wheels.

"Ensuring this funding is targeted where improvements will make a real difference to cyclists is just one way we are ensuring this trend continues.

"This is part of the £107 million investment we have announced in cycling infrastructure over the last year, over and above the £600 million we have invested through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. We have launched a THINK! ‘Let’s look out for each other’ campaign and have made it easier for councils to set 20 miles per hour (mph) speed limits and install trixi mirrors at junctions so drivers are better able to see cyclists."

Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond said: "Keeping people safe on our roads is of paramount importance to me. This money will enable local authorities to put in place well targeted measures to protect cyclists across the country."

The schemes, which are being offered funding with a £20 million government grant and £20 million local authority match-funding, have been selected for their positive impact on safety. To choose the best schemes, the department has been supported by a panel of experts, led by the transport charity Sustrans.

The schemes cover every geographical region apart from London – which is overseen by Transport for London. The funding for each region comes to approximately:

•     east of England: £5.31 million
•     east midlands: £3.17 million
•     north east: £3.29 million
•     south west: £3.09 million
•     north west: £14.77 million
•     south east: £5.57 million
•     west midlands: £1.51 million
•     Yorkshire and Humber: £2.62 million

All schemes will commence once confirmations have been secured from co-funders.