Transport secretary Grant Schapps has announced that £250 million is to be invested in creating pop-up cycle lanes, wider pavements, safer junctions and bus-only corridors in England.
It is hoped these would be delivered "within weeks".
The investment is part of a £2bn emergency active travel fund, which forms part of the £5bn new funding announced for cycling and buses earlier this year.
Walking and cycling have seen an increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Government advising people to avoid public transport and stay at home to help control the spread of the virus. The Government hope these plans will encourage people to choose more alternatives to public transport, as well as making healthier habits easier.
Guidance published earlier in May advised local councils to reallocate road space to accommodate "significantly increased numbers" of cyclists and pedestrians. This could result in certain streets across towns and cities being used by bikes and buses only, with others reserved for motorists. More side streets could also be closed to through-traffic, which would help reduce traffic and "rat-running". In addition, vouchers would be issued for cycle repairs, to help encourage people to dig their old bikes out of the garage and get them road-worthy.
Schapps commented:
"When the country does get back to work we need those people to stay on their bikes and be joined by many more. Otherwise, with public transport’s capacity severely restricted at this time, our trains and buses could become overcrowded and our roads gridlocked – holding up emergency services, critical workers and vital supplies.
"We know cars will continue to remain vital for many, but as we look to the future we must build a better country with greener travel habits, cleaner air and healthier communities."
Cycling and walking investment strategy
The Government is expected to publish an updated cycling and walking investment strategy in the summer, which will aim to double cycling and increase people walking by 2025.
Other measures to be included are:
In addition, e-scooter trials will be brought forward, and their benefits assessed, along with their impact on public space. The West Midlands will be trialling e-scooters soon.
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