Bikeability scheme receives £11m

Date: 13/4/2012

The government has allocated almost £11 million to a new scheme to help children learn to cycle safely.

Called Bikeability, the initiative will reach more than 300,000 youngsters and will involve both schools and local highway authorities.

The initial £11 million will be supported by further investment of £24 million over the next two years.

Merseytravel will receive more than £400,000 of funding, while £350,000 will go to Staffordshire and nearly £500,000 worth of training will be allocated to Hampshire.

Local Transport Minister Norman Baker said: "It is vital that the next generation of cyclists is well prepared with the skills and confidence to ride safely and well on modern roads."

He pointed out that cycling is a healthy way to travel that also reduces carbon emissions.

The Department for Transport has also created an online cycling journey planner covering every road in England to make it easier for people to find safe routes.

Posted by Mary Treen