Published March 31, 2017 at 16:09
You can have your say on plans to encourage more people to walk and cycle for everyday and leisure journeys in Lancashire.
Lancashire County Council and partners are developing a draft Cycling and Walking Strategy for Lancashire, 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 which already offer excellent access to the county’s towns and cities and beautiful rural landscape.
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 help to tackle worsening levels of physical inactivity, with some areas in the county falling significantly below the national average.
Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Lancashire County Council’s director for public health and wellbeing, said:
“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 2017. To see the strategy and offer your feedback please click on the following link http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/haveyoursay or look under ‘current consultations’ on Lancashire County Council’s website.