Bedford to benefit from £480k cash boost for more footpaths and cycle tracks

The East of England will receive a huge £30.5m boost from Active Travel England (ATE) to build more walking, wheeling and cycling routes, the government announced today (February 12).

Of this, Bedford Borough Council will receive £488,175 – and plans about how it will be spent are already under way.

Councillor Nicola Gribble, portfolio holder for environment, said: "It’s fantastic news that Bedford borough has secured funding to enhance walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure.

"This investment will support the development of active travel options, promoting healthier lifestyles and improving connectivity for residents.

"Bedford Borough Council is currently developing plans for these improvements and will provide further details in due course."

ATE aims to help councils "deliver high quality cycle tracks and footpaths" as well as "safer crossings and junctions" for all road users.

It wants local residents and businesses to "be heard" when councils are designing and delivering transport changes – and it has published guidance to encourage this.

National Active Travel commissioner, Chris Boardman, said: “Making it simple and safe to walk, wheel or cycle to schools, shops and workplaces is one of the most effective actions we can take to improve the nation’s health, economy and get to net zero."

Neighbouring Luton Council has been awarded £590,836, while Central Bedfordshire Council has been given £776,672.

The ATE funding will allow the construction of more than 300 miles of new walkways and cycle lanes across the country – and it is hoped that 30million more journeys will be made by bike or foot every year.