North Somerset Council has proposed seven new active travel schemes, which it is asking residents to review through a new consultation.
The local authority hopes to develop further travel opportunities for residents, and prioritise those which offer environmental and health benefits.
The new measures align with the council’s ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030, as well as supporting low or no-cost journeys.
By making active travel more attractive, it hopes to encourage healthier lifestyles, drive local economic development and shape liveable neighbourhoods.
The consultation will open on Monday 9 January 2023 and run for six weeks until 20 February, with each of the draft plans underpinning the council’s strategy to make walking and cycling more popular.
The seven action plans include developing an active travel network and encouraging behavioural changes around transport.
Cllr Steve Hogg, executive member for transport and highways, said: “We strive for residents and businesses to choose walking/wheeling and cycling as the natural and enjoyable choice for short and medium length journeys and for the first and last mile of longer journeys.
“We want people to be able to make these journeys on a safe, connected network, and for active travel to be the most attractive option wherever possible.
“Transport accounts for 40% of carbon emissions in North Somerset so we have to act quickly and effectively to make active travel an attractive and viable option for many more people.
“The pandemic saw a huge increase in the number of people using bikes, with levels above the national average.
“We know there’s demand, we’ve got some great active travel routes already, but we need to do more.
“I’d encourage people to get involved in the survey so we can reflect local people’s ideas in their development.”
The delivery of the proposals will be subject to engagement and securing necessary funding and resources, according to the council.
