Prime Minister Boris Johnson is launching a £2bn cycling and walking ‘revolution’ today (July 28) including thousands of miles of new bike lanes, cycle training and prescription bikes.
It comes shortly after the launch of the PM’s obesity campaign, to improve the health of the population, take demand off the NHS and protect people from the coronavirus.
This bold new vision for cycling and walking has been prompted by the uptake of active travel during the coronavirus lockdown and from tonight, the first 50,000 people can apply for a £50 voucher to fix their bikes, as part of the Fix your Bike Voucher Scheme.
New measures will also include cycling training for every child and adult who wants it, from schools, local authorities or cycle training schemes.
Cycling infrastructure will be completed to a higher standard thanks to updated guidance published today, overseen by a new inspectorate Active Travel England.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“From helping people get fit and healthy and lowering their risk of illness, to improving air quality and cutting congestion, cycling and walking have a huge role to play in tackling some of the biggest health and environmental challenges that we face.
“But to build a healthier, more active nation, we need the right infrastructure, training and support in place to give people the confidence to travel on two wheels.
“That’s why now is the time to shift gears and press ahead with our biggest and boldest plans yet to boost active travel – so that everyone can feel the transformative benefits of cycling.”
Other commitments in the plan include the creation of a long-term cycling programme and budget, the creation of more low traffic neighbourhoods and more access to e-bikes, with a new national e-bike programme.
