Devon County Council has revealed that walking and cycling projects in Devon are receiving £3.9m of government funding.
The funding is part of a £291m national package delivered by the UK government and Active Travel England (ATE), and is reportedly the largest settlement for any authority in the South West.
Devon stated that the funding would be used to support the development of around 300 miles of new footpaths and cycle lanes across the country to make walking and cycling easier and safer, while also funding cycle training for thousands of children.
The council currently has three Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) in development with another three planned for later in 2025.
The aim for these LCWIPs is to develop a sustainable active travel plan over the next 10-20 years that can be supported through ATE funding.
Minister for local transport Simon Lightwood said: “Walking and cycling is an affordable way to get around and is hugely beneficial for both mental and physical health.
“We’re making sure local authorities can deliver high-quality and easily accessible schemes for everyone.
“Investing in our national cycling and walking infrastructure is a key part our mission for growth and today’s investment will not only provide better connectivity, but boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS, helping us deliver our Plan for Change.”
Achievements and innovations in active travel will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
