News | Transport

Olympic cyclist Chris Boardman welcomes plan for ring-fenced cycling fund

 
Ross Lydall @RossLydall|Chief News Correspondent
23 January 2015

Cycling campaigners have hailed a “fantastic move” to improve the network of safer routes and improved infrastructure.

They welcomed a proposal by the Government to set a legally-binding cycling and walking investment strategy that will force the Department for Transport to ensure that funds are secured to promote active transport for the next five years.

Former Olympic champion cyclist Chris Boardman said the move brought Britain “one step closer to realising our vision for a cycling nation.”

The proposal has been made in an amendment to Infrastructure Bill, currently being considered by the House of Lords.

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Mr Boardman, policy adviser to British Cycling, said: “Transforming the way Britain travels is not something we can do overnight but this amendment represents a massive shift in thinking and most importantly, commitment. It brings us one step closer to realising our vision for a cycling nation.

“And this isn’t just about roads, it could require railway stations, offices and retail parks to all accommodate the needs of people on bikes. I expect all MPs and peers do the right thing and vote through this amendment.

“This truly is a fantastic move... everyone who rides a bike should see this as the start of something really exciting.”

Julian Huppert, Liberal Democrat MP and co-chair of the all party parliamentary cycling group, said: “It is the right thing to improve health, the environment and congestion.”