Published Tuesday 28 March 2017 at 14:03
You can have your say on plans to encourage more people to walk and cycle for everyday and leisure journeys across Lancashire.
A draft Cycling and Walking Strategy for Lancashire is being developed which also covers the neighbouring areas of Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool.
The strategy will shape local spending priorities aimed at developing Lancashire’s walking and cycling offer over the next ten years, building on the range of high quality walking and cycling routes already offering excellent access to the county’s towns and cities and enviable environment.
The ambitious plan aims to double the number of people cycling by 2026, and increase walking by 10% over the same period, with a focus on encouraging more primary-aged children to walk to school. The plan will tackle worsening levels of physical inactivity, with some areas in the county falling significantly below the national average.
In Blackburn with Darwen there’s lots of work already going on to encourage more walking and cycling opportunities.
The development of the Weavers Wheel strategic cycle network is well underway linking up Blackburn and Darwen with a network of routes, the Council is working with schools to encourage healthy travel initiatives and a new cycling app which highlights a number of cycle rides and walking routes in the borough that cater for all abilities is due to be launched soon.
Councillor Mustafa Desai, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:
The health benefits of walking and cycling in tackling poor health, obesity and the rising cost of physical inactivity are invaluable. It’s hugely exciting to be involved in plans like these.
If the environment is safe and accessible, cycling and walking will be seen by more people as an enjoyable and fun way of travelling, which will also contribute to better health and wellbeing. I’d encourage as many people as possible to get involved in the consultation and share your views on the plans.
Dr. Sakthi Karunanithi, Lancashire County Council’s Director for Public Health and Wellbeing, added:
Making it easier for people to walk and cycle brings many benefits, from improving people’s health and wellbeing, reducing road congestion and improving local air quality, to providing access to job opportunities and supporting economic growth.
There will be many opportunities to improve the routes, facilities and support for people to travel actively and safely, whatever the reason for their journey, and this strategy will underpin our approach.
We’re keen to hear what people think, and listen to any new ideas, and I’d encourage people to have their say.
Consultation on the strategy runs until Friday 21 April. To see the strategy and offer your feedback look under ‘current consultations’ on Lancashire County Council’s website at www.lancashire.gov.uk/haveyoursay.