Segregated cycle routes on road to success

Ambitious cycling plans in Scotland are being reinvigorated with the introduction of a new taskforce.

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf announced the plans for a taskforce, the main aim of which will be to drive forward ambitious cycling infrastructure such as segregated cycle paths, at the Active Travel Summit in Stirling today.

The Minister also unveiled details of the latest round of the multi-million pound Community Links PLUS competition which seeks ambitious design projects that restore balance in Scotland’s streets in favour of people walking and cycling.

Mr Yousaf said:

“I cannot emphasise enough the Scottish Government’s absolute commitment to increasing active travel rates. Since 2010, £100m has been invested in the Community Links programme providing grant funding for over 700 cycling and walking projects; all of which are helping to increase the number of people choosing to travel actively on a daily basis.

“While the Scottish Government is investing record amounts, I want to be certain that public money is invested wisely and any barriers to effective delivery are understood and overcome.

“Community Links Plus has the potential to be a game changer for Active Travel In Scotland but too often bold visions get bogged down in the delivery. Recently, I have been disappointed some decisions taken locally about cycling infrastructure which will hinder the achievement of our long term vision – in particular the installation of segregated cycle lanes on the streets of our towns and cities.

“That is why I am establishing this taskforce to look at how we can tackle the practical barriers to delivery of ambitious cycling and walking projects in Scotland. Local authorities can and do deliver bold and visionary improvements, such as the most recent winning Community Links PLUS project in Glasgow – the South City Way.

“I am determined to make this taskforce work through local democracy and in doing so ensure better community consultation, better communication and ultimately better active travel infrastructure that is good for local economies and communities.

“It is only by working together we will be able to deliver a 21st century cycling infrastructure that befits our ambitions for healthier, more prosperous communities who are less reliant on the car as a mode of transport.”

The new taskforce, chaired by Transport Scotland, will begin its work following the publication of the updated Cycling Action Plan for Scotland in December. Key organisations such as COSLA, the Society of Chief Officers of Transportation in Scotland and other delivery partners will be invited to take an active part in the group.

Notes to Editor

• Community Links PLUS competition for 2016/17 is run by Sustrans, in partnership with Scottish Government and Transport Scotland, Community Links PLUS is entering its second year.
• Targeted at local authorities and statutory bodies the primary aim of the competition is to deliver pioneering and game changing projects to inspire communities and councils in Scotland to continue to design places around people, now and into the future.

• More information on Community Links PLUS and the application portal: http://bit.ly/ClPLUS