Active travel routes in Wiltshire to get £3.1m boost
Walking, wheeling and cycling is set to become safer and more accessible in the county
Wiltshire Council has been awarded over £3.1m in government funding to boost walking, wheeling, and cycling routes in the county.
The £3,169,878 funding will be delivered over the next four years as part of the Government's consolidated transport settlements. It will be used to enhance active travel infrastructure, including new and improved footpaths, cycle lanes, and junctions.
The project also includes future planning for cycling and walking networks, scheme design, and training to encourage sustainable travel choices in Wiltshire communities.
Improving accessibility and sustainability
The investment aligns with Wiltshire Council’s commitment to building sustainable and accessible transport options across the county.
Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “We're pleased to receive this £3.1m over the next four years, which will enable us to strengthen active travel infrastructure across Wiltshire.”
He noted that while the council is determining the specifics of the funding allocation, the plan is expected to include a mix of new routes and future planning projects.
“Better walking and cycling options will not only make sustainable travel easier but also reduce congestion in our towns and city, improve public health, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance air quality,” Cllr Smith added.
Future ambitions
Cllr Smith also highlighted ambitions to improve Wiltshire’s Active Travel England rating, saying, “I am working hard to improve our Active Travel England (ATE) rating so we can secure more funding over the coming years and invest in more cycling and walking routes.”
The funding supports Wiltshire Council’s green priorities, as outlined in the ‘Our Wiltshire Plan,’ aiming to build a greener county where travel options are designed to benefit both the environment and local communities.