Travel Plans National News Feed

McDevitt's Bill will help Northern Ireland become more active

Fri, 18 May 2012 09:09:16 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 17 May, 2012

Twenty miles per hour limits on residential streets will help make communities safer, especially for those wanting to get out on foot or on bike for local journeys.

Charity Sustrans is backing a Private Member's Bill from Conall McDevitt MLA that will see 20 miles per hour limits become the norm on residential streets across Northern Ireland.

Sustrans Northern Ireland Director, Steven Patterson, said, "This Bill has the potential to make a big difference to communities in Northern Ireland.

"Speeding traffic is regularly given as a reason why many of us don't cycle for our local journeys. Parents are scared to let youngsters outside the front door and fear of traffic is a major reason. Children are becoming less active and that's bad for their health.

"Slower speed limits will make our communities safer and help make Northern Ireland a more active country. We hope this Bill will receive support from all parties at Stormont."

Take part in the consultation by clicking here.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Sustrans is the charity that's enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we make every day. It's time we all began making smarter travel choices. Make your move and support Sustrans today. www.sustrans.org.uk

Revolutionary new Tram Trains to be piloted in South Yorkshire

Thu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 GMT

Passengers in South Yorkshire will be the first in the country to benefit from flexible new Tram Trains that will make their journeys easier and more convenient.

Government agrees station funding

Mon, 14 May 2012 11:30:00 GMT

Ministers have today approved £10m of Government funding for the redevelopment of Northampton station designed to help transform the town’s economy.

David Miliband MP backs Sustrans schools project in North East

Fri, 11 May 2012 16:24:02 GMT

Issued on: Friday 11 May, 2012

David Miliband MP will today (Friday) launch a programme of cutting edge projects designed to get more young people to cycle, walk and take public transport to school.

The South Shields MP will speak at the launch of Schools Go Smarter, a Tyne and Wear-wide suite of green travel projects aimed at primary and secondary school children and their parents and carers paid for by a £5m grant from the Department for Transport as well as funding from councils across Tyne and Wear.

Among the projects on offer to schools are cycle training for nursery-aged children, grants for school cycle sheds, child pedestrian training and school walking competitions.

Launching the initiative at Hadrian School, South Shields, David Miliband MP said: "All these projects have a simple aim, to get young people out of the car and going to and from school by foot, bike, bus or Metro with their parents.

"Increasing the numbers of green school runs will help the Tyne and Wear economy by reducing traffic jams, improve our environment by cutting pollution and help our children and their parents and carers stay fit and healthy."

The projects have also received a statement of support from Transport Minister Norman Baker MP who said he was impressed by the range and scope of the Go Smarter projects.

Schools Go Smarter projects will run until March 2015 and will be delivered by the Tyne and Wear local authorities as well as national charities Sustrans and Living Streets.

Hadrian School was chosen for the launch because of its successful track record of getting more pupils to cycle to and from lessons. Cycling charity Sustrans has praised its attempts to establish a cycling culture and it recently came third in the Sustrans 'Big Pedal' virtual bike ride.

Chair of the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority Cllr David Wood said:

"Walking, cycling and taking public transport to and from school is good for young people, good for our economy and good for the environment. These projects underline how small initiatives, for example holding bike breakfasts for kids who cycle to school, can encourage a lot more young people to get on their bikes."

The launch will be attended by young people from across Tyne and Wear who have committed to get to the event by bus, Metro, Shields Ferry, by foot and by bike.

To find out more about the projects go to www.gosmarter.co.uk

Transport minister Norman Baker said, "It is great to hear that the children of Tyne and Wear are so enthusiastic about sustainable travel and are keen to Go Smarter. I'm particularly impressed by the number of schemes to encourage pupils and their parents to think about greener and healthier alternatives to driving to school every day. These are just the kinds of projects we want to finance through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund – that is why we are providing almost £5 million to help bring these fantastic local projects to fruition."

Cycling and walking routes to be provided by law in Wales

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:59:06 GMT

Issued on: Wednesday 9 May, 2012

New plans to legally oblige Welsh local authorities to provide cycling and walking routes have been described as 'ground-breaking' by transport charity Sustrans today (Wednesday 9 May).

The proposed Active Travel (Wales) Bill – outlined in a White Paper released today – will be the first of its kind in the world, making it a legal requirement for local authorities to plan and deliver routes that link up schools, hospitals and shopping areas with traffic-free routes and cycle lanes.

The announcement follows a five-year campaign by Sustrans in Wales. The campaign had the backing of all parties in Wales and a range organisations including BT, Royal Mail, the British Medical Association and the Children's Commissioner for Wales.

Malcolm Shepherd, Chief Executive of Sustrans said:

"This is a ground-breaking move by the Welsh government that will help people get around more safely, cheaply and healthily.

"People all over the UK want to cycle and walk more for every day journeys but are held back by safety concerns.

"Walking and cycling are the answers to the UK's rocketing fuel bill and expanding waistline but getting around actively must be made safer and easier across the country."

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. The White Paper sets out proposals to require Local Authorities in Wales to:

- identify and map the network of routes within their areas that are safe and appropriate for walking and cycling;

- identify and map the enhancements that would be required to create a fully integrated network for walking and cycling and develop a prioritised list of schemes to deliver the network;

- deliver an enhanced network subject to budget availability and following due process;

- consider the potential for enhancing walking and cycling provision in the development of new road schemes.

2. Sustrans Cymru has been instrumental in persuading the Welsh Government to introduce this new law. Five years ago Sustrans submitted a petition to the Assembly calling for an obligation on the Welsh Government to develop and maintain a network of paths for pedestrians and cyclists, mirroring a similar duty to provide roads. The call was widely supported, including by BT, Royal Mail, the BMA, the NUT, the Association of Chief Constables and the Children's Commissioner for Wales, as part of efforts to help tackle the twin challenges of climate change and obesity.

Scunthorpe man’s dream finally realised as The Ridgeway opens

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:24:27 GMT

Issued on: Friday 27 April, 2012

An 80-year dream of a former Scunthorpe town planner Sir Patrick Abercrombie has been realised. The Ridgeway project - a six-mile continuous traffic free route that runs north to south of Scunthorpe is now complete.

On Friday 27 April, the Mayor of North Lincolnshire, Keith Vickers, will open a brand new bridge that will link two sections of the route - the final piece to the jigsaw.

The route is part of a national project from charity Sustrans that is creating new routes for everyday journeys in communities across the UK, thanks to a £50m grant from the Big Lottery Fund. Local funding has also been used for the scheme.

Four years from winning the grant and the transformation is unbelievable. Now called the Ridgeway National Cycle Network, it connects people to people, people to places and provides a safe off-road route through the western side of Scunthorpe from Atkinson's Warren to Manor Park.

The route has beautiful, peaceful views westwards over the Trent Valley, that join seamlessly with schools and colleges along the way and to Central Park.

It links residential areas to schools and colleges and connects people to town centre amenities including the hospital, health centres and the award winning Pods sport and leisure centre.

The bridge is one of two. The other, on Bridges Road, opened last year.

Cllr Nigel Sherwood, cabinet member for highways and neighbourhoods at North Lincolnshire Council, said:

"This is a fantastic asset to thousands of people, enabling them to leave their cars at home, get some exercise, take in the fresh air and enjoy the views.

"The route is already proving immensely popular. We've seen a huge increase in cycling and walking along the route in the last seven months, with over 183,000 pedestrians and around 65,000 cyclists using it.

"It's fantastic to see the project finish. The support of local people was vitally important in turning the dream into reality, and I want to thank everyone for their help."

Matt Easter, Sustrans Regional Director for the East Midlands, said:

"Walking and cycling are great ways to get around. They're good for our health, our wallet and its fun to be out and about too.

"Many people would love to cycle more, but unfortunately feel that the roads can be too dangerous. Routes such as this one in Scunthorpe are allowing more people to make more of their everyday journeys under their own steam,"

Vanessa White, Big Lottery Fund Head of Region for Yorkshire and the Humber, said:

"The BIG Lottery Fund's innovative Living Landmarks programme was designed to transform, revitalise and regenerate communities, whilst allowing the public to decide how to invest the funding. Connect 2 is a fantastic example of what Living Landmarks has achieved, promoting safe routes for walkers and cyclists, connecting communities and healthier lives for the people of Scunthorpe and beyond."

Included along the route is the Olympic themed open air gym designed for free use by all, but particularly intended for the many schools in the area with easy access via he Ridgeway.

The newly finished West Common Lane Bridge was an essential part of the route and already offers connectivity opportunities linking with Scunthorpe Town Centre, schools, hospital, The Pods, colleges and parks.

Notes for editors

You are invited to send a reporter/photographer to the opening of the bridge on Westcommon Lane, Scunthorpe (close to John Leggott College), at 3.30pm.

You are also invited to the introduction and refreshments at 2.30pm. It will be held above the sports hall - the building situated to the left of John Leggott College on West Common Lane. It will be sign posted. Parking is across the road.

The Ridgeway

It was the vision of the 1920s planner, Sir Patrick Abercrombie to join together the five villages, that today make up Scunthorpe, reinforced by a coherent network of green spaces and a comprehensive network for people to move between the various residential areas. He lived from 1879 to 1957.

The Ridgeway project cost £3.4m, with £1m of that from Sustrans in conjunction with the Big Lottery Fund.

The construction of the project was down to local business expertise.The steel for the two bridges was sourced locally.Local volunteers played their part by planting trees to improve the habitat of local wildlife.

Liverpool on walkit.com

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:09:55 GMT

As of this week, we’re delighted to announce that we (finally!) cover walking routes in Liverpool here on walkit.com. It's been a long time coming, and we've received a lot of encouragement from our users and potential users to get this [...]

The Great British Walking Challenge

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:58:31 GMT

Our friends at Living Streets are organising a challenge for walkers of Britain this May. Here's what they have to say about it: This May, national charity Living Streets is urging people across the country to take to their feet [...]

School travel in gaping hole in Mayoral candidates' plans

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:01:42 GMT

Release date: Tuesday 24 April, 2012

None of the main candidates running for London Mayor has a proper plan to help young Londoners get around or cut the school run's massive contribution to congestion in the city, according to new analysis by transport charity Sustrans.

All but the current Mayor have been commended by Sustrans for promising slower speed limits and safer cycling and the charity is urging all candidates to outline how they will make London's children safer when they take part in a cycling hustings event on 30 April.

Sustrans is calling for 20mph speed limits on residential and shopping streets across London and safer routes for children to cycle and walk to school.

Carl Pittam, Sustrans England Director, said,

"Car journeys to and from school are a massive source of traffic and pollution, not to mention a major headache for parents and kids.

"Making our streets safer and more pleasant for more children to cycle or walk to school would mean they'd be healthier, happier and more alert in the classroom.

"It's great for London that four leading candidates are backing more 20 mile per hour speed limits, but very disappointing that the current Mayor isn't among them.

"The cycling safety debate next week is an ideal opportunity for Boris, Ken, Brian, Jenny and Siobhan to reassure parents and kids they will make a difference to their every day journeys."

Sustrans verdict on the five manifestos is:

- New independent candidate Siobhan Benita has raised eyebrows by committing to a third runway at Heathrow, but is pioneering innovative new approaches such as cycle safety as part of the driving test

- Conservative incumbent Boris Johnson frames himself as the cycling Mayor but appear to be taking 20 steps backwards by committing to unnecessary and polluting new roads

- Green candidate Jenny Jones clearly sees the value of walking and cycling as main transport choices, but her short manifesto lacks detail on how she'd achieve her vision

- Labour candidate Ken Livingstone has made an admirable commitment to cycling for everyone, not just hardened young men in the city centre, but his promise to make parking easier would see more people driving

- Brian Paddick shows how the Lib Dems understand the link between transport and quality of life. He puts Boris to shame with a commitment to new river crossings in East London that prioritise public transport, bikes and pedestrians over vehicles

ENDS

Notes to editors

The school run contributes almost 300,000 daily car journeys in London, almost a quarter of all journeys to school.

On Monday 30 April, the five leading Mayoral candidates will take part in a debate on The Times cyclesafe campaign, run jointly by the national newspaper and charity Sustrans

Sustrans believes every child deserves to be free range, with freedom from their front door to explore, play outdoors, and make their own way to school and beyond. Find out more, join in and speak out for Free Range Kids at www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids

Sustrans is spearheading the 'City of 20' campaign in London along with Living Streets.

Wales goes further to cut car journeys

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:07:52 GMT

Release date: Monday 23 April, 2012

More people in Wales are about to get the chance to become involved in the biggest project of its kind to reduce car use.

Charity Sustrans and partners Socialdata began leading the £4 million, four-year, Wales-wide 'Personalised Travel Planning' project last September in parts of Cardiff. From today [Monday 23 April] it will extend to include people in Cardiff West, Cardiff Central and Penarth.

The project works directly with people at school, work and home, helping them to make more of their short, local journeys on foot, bike and public transport where possible. It includes providing people with walking and cycling route maps, details of local bus services and fares, and helping people plan their journey. Similar projects elsewhere have succeeded in cutting car trips by around ten per cent.

Lee Waters, Sustrans Cymru Director, said; 'Too many of us are forced to rely on cars, but that can't go on with petrol getting more and more expensive. Prices are only going to go up in the long term so this project will help people in Wales access other local options are cheaper, easier, more active and often quicker than using the car.'

The project will take four years to complete across Wales. It is being funded by Welsh Government and led by Sustrans with support from Cardiff Council and Vale of Glamorgan Council during the first phase, which will see 63,000 households contacted by the end of September, before being rolled-out across other parts of Wales.

To find out more about Sustrans Cymru, visit www.sustrans.org.uk./wales call 029 2065 0602 or email sustranscymru@sustrans.org.uk

/ends

NOTES

Sustrans and Socialdata deliver the most successful examples of personalised travel planning in the UK and consistently achieve reductions in personal car use of 10 per cent or more.

A four-year programme of Personalised Travel Planning and Associated Initiatives began in Wales in Spring 2011, funded by the Welsh Government and led by Sustrans in partnership with Socialdata, local authorities and regional transport consortia. It will reach over 100,000 households across Wales, as well as workplaces and schools and is part of the Welsh Government's Sustainable Travel Centres initiative which was first introduced in 2009.

Cardiff Council is working in partnership with Sustrans and the Welsh Government in the delivery of the Keeping Cardiff Moving personalised travel planning project to households in Cardiff. The Welsh Government announced in 2009 that Cardiff through a joint venture with Cardiff Council would be Wales' first Sustainable Travel City, providing real and desirable alternatives to car travel, delivering a mix of infrastructure improvements and a programme of smarter choice measures. www.keepingcardiffmoving.co.uk

Three day bike adventure is on

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:42:27 GMT

Issued on: Monday 16 April, 2012

Cycling enthusiasts are encouraged to take up the challenge of a 140-mile, three-day ride in aid of charity Sustrans.

Organised by Saddle Skedaddle, the UK's leading cycling holiday company, the Sea to Sea (C2C) fundraising bike ride begins on the Irish Sea coast at Whitehaven on Friday 21 September and ends on the North Sea coast at Tynemouth on Sunday 23 September, 2012.

Riders on the UK's most popular 'challenge' cycle route will take in the wide open spaces and dramatic scenery of the Lake District, Cumbria and the North Pennines, along the way passing highlights such as the Consett-Sunderland railway path and sculpture trail, and Black Hill, the highest point on the National Cycle Network (609m).

At the same time, they will be raising sponsorship money to support the work of Sustrans, which includes creating and maintaining the National Cycle Network – now more than 13,000 miles long.

Kate Jones, Sustrans Events Officer, said, "The Sea to Sea is an incredibly popular route, taking in some of the finest scenery across the North. And what better reason to take on the challenge than to raise money to help other people enjoy all the fun that riding a bike can offer."

This 'must-do' UK cycling challenge is suited to those who cycle regularly or those that put in the training to be able to cycle at least 40 miles comfortably in a day. Although there are some steep climbs, these are eased by long descents, sections of easy flowing cycleway and quiet country lanes.

In an extra show of support, Saddle Skedaddle are sponsoring the production of a series of signs along the route, accompanied by an eyecatching leaflet to raise awareness of the cost of maintenance of the C2C route. The signs and leaflets encourage visitors to the C2C to make an easy text donation to charity Sustrans to help contribute towards the upkeep of the route. As well as highlighting that a charity maintains large sections of the route, users will be encouraged to donate £5 by texting 'C2C' to 70007.

All funds raised will go straight back towards the £67,500 a year that it costs Sustrans to maintain the C2C route.

Andrew Straw, Director, Saddle Skedaddle said, "The C2C is an incredibly popular cycle route it's easy to see why it's so popular. We are keen to do what we can to support Sustrans in maintaining this fantastic facility for everyone to use."

The total cost of the trip will be £300, which includes a mandatory £100 donation to Sustrans as Saddle Skedaddle have subsidised this ride to help to raise as much money as possible for the charity. Riders are then free to raise additional funds and there will be some exciting prizes for those who raise the most money.

The price of the trip includes accommodation at local B&Bs along the route and breakfast, lunch and en-route refreshments provided each day. The money raised will be used amongst other things to help maintain the paths on the National Cycle Network, supporting the work of Sustrans' volunteer rangers on routes such as the C2C.

Places are limited so riders are encouraged to sign up today to be part of this challenging and rewarding trip.

For more information on the ride visit www.sustrans.org.uk/challenge or contact Saddle Skedaddle on 0191 265 1110, email info@skedaddle.co.uk or visit https://www.skedaddle.co.uk/

/ends

For more information on Sustrans or to request interviews, please contact

Sustrans press office 0117 927 7555 / press@sustrans.org.uk

For pictures, please contact Sustrans Picture Library

Tel: 0117 915 0120 Email photos@sustrans.org.uk

Press Office Out of office hours – 07802 986728

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

Sustrans is the charity that's enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we make every day. Our work makes it possible for people to choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys, with better places and spaces to move through and live in. It's time we all began making smarter travel choices. Make your move and support Sustrans today. www.sustrans.org.uk

'Saddle Skedaddle are proud to support Sustrans and the C2C route by sponsoring a fundraising initiative along the route. As long term supporters of Sustrans' work, Saddle Skedaddle donate 5p for every mile which a Saddle Skedaddle customer cycles on the National Cycle Network as part of their holiday. Saddle Skedaddle are the UK's leading cycling holiday company. For more information visit www.skedaddle.co.uk.'

Life-size portrait of 'The Voice' chosen in Treforest

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:17:37 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 5 April, 2012

People in Treforest have voted for 'singing sensation Sir Tom Jones OBE to feature on a new artwork.

A life-size steel portrait of locally-born Tom, known as 'The Voice', will be one of three that appear on a 'portrait bench' on the new walking and cycling route between Treforest and Tonteg. This project utilises funding from the Welsh Government, partners in the Valleys Regional Park initiative, through a project part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

John Hughes MBE, the owner and founder of the World of Groggs has also been chosen to feature on the bench, as has James James from Pontypridd, composer of the Welsh National Anthem, who was picked by the children of St Michael's RC Primary School.

The bench will be placed along the Treforest Community Route, which has received funding through the Valleys Regional Parks initiative via the European Regional Development Fund and also the Regional Transport Grant from Sewta, both through the Welsh Government. It is also part of a national project from Sustrans to build new walking and cycling routes in communities across the UK thanks to the Big Lottery Fund.

Rachel Lister, Sustrans Cymru Project Manager for the scheme, said; 'Featuring local people on the portrait bench is a great way to make this artwork, and the walking and cycling route, unique to Treforest. It should reinforce how much there is to celebrate about this beautiful area of Wales and be here for people to enjoy for many years to come.'

Nigel Brinn, Service Director for Highways, Transportation and Strategic Projects at Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, said: "The new walking and cycling route will be a fantastic asset for the community of Treforest and beyond, offering a beautiful, relaxing way for them to spend time outdoors and enjoy activity. It is an important and valuable project from both a transport and recreational perspective."

The Treforest Community Route will provide a walking and cycling link between the Church Village Community Route at Tonteg and Llantwit Road in Treforest and is due to be officially opened during Bike Week in June 2012.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Wales has over 1,200 miles of National Cycle Network, with a team of around 200 volunteers who help to maintain the Network across the country.

Londoners to quiz Boris and Ken about cycling - Hustings event announced

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:18:24 GMT

Issued on: Wednesday 4 April, 2012

Cyclists will quiz the four main candidates running for Mayor of London on Monday April 30th at a hustings event staged by transport charity Sustrans and The Times newspaper.

Candidates Boris Johnson, Ken Livingstone, Jenny Jones and Brian Paddick will be grilled on how they intend to make London a cycling city as part of The Times's 'Cities fit for cycling' campaign. It is set to be the only debate which all four candidates will attend focussing solely on cycling ahead of the election on May 3rd.

Sustrans supporters and Times readers will be able to apply online for tickets for the free event which will take place from 2pm to 3.30pm in Westminster.

Carl Pittam, Sustrans' England Director, said:

"In cities like Copenhagen cycling is the norm for everyone, from commuters to mums doing the school run.

"Cycling in our capital is more popular than ever but more than half of us still find our roads too scary to cycle on.

"Roads that are safe for cycling are also safer for pedestrians, children and drivers – and are more pleasant for all Londoners to enjoy.

"Creating safe streets for cycling and walking must be top of our Mayor's to-do list."

James Harding, Editor of The Times, said:

"Cities must build an infrastructure fit for cyclists. Britain's cities and streets must change.

"Cycling should be not just a healthy and quick way to get around but also a pleasure. At the moment, those who ride have too much to fear."

ENDS

Notes to editors

For more information on the event see http://www.sustrans.org.uk/sustrans-near-you/london/policy-in-london or www.offersinthetimes.com/cycling

Journalists interested in attending should contact Ellie Besley Eleanor.besley@sustrans.org.uk 0207 017 2352 or 07799 717454

The Times's 'Cities fit for cycling campaign' was launched on February 2 this year. So far, more than 33,000 people have signed up and pledged their support, 7,500 have written in with their own stories of cycling in this country, more than 3,500 have written to their MPs urging them to back the campaign and 8700 hazard points have been marked on our Make Britain #cyclesafe map www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/public/cyclesafety/contact

Kids cycle a million miles to save parents fuel cash

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:38:44 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 29 March, 2012

Children from across the UK have saved parents over £368,000 in unnecessary fuel costs in just three weeks by cycling a total of a million miles to school.

The journeys were made as part of Sustrans' Big Pedal – the UK's biggest school cycling competition backed by world cycling champion Mark Cavendish and involving more than a thousand schools around the country.

With fuel prices rising and shortages looming, over a quarter of a million children showed how choosing two wheels instead of four for the school run can help families save cash while getting fit.

If these cycling levels were maintained throughout the school year, cash strapped Britons could save themselves nearly £3million in fuel costs.

Gary Shipp Sustrans Schools co-ordinator said,

"Rising prices and looming fuel shortages mean that parents across the country are looking for ways to cut back on petrol costs.

"Thousands of British families– including Samantha Cameron and her kids – are showing just how easy it is to leave the car at home and use two wheels for short journeys like the school run.

"Children that regularly cycle to school are fitter, more alert and better learners."

Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent do.

The race is funded by the bicycle industry through its Bike Hub. Phillip Darnton Executive Director of the Bicycle Association added,

"The future of cycling depends on every generation of kids learning and wanting to cycle. What better way to get started than joining in the Big Pedal.

"The cycle industry through its Bike Hub levy is delighted to fund this event for another year."

For more information and to see which schools in your area are taking part in the Big Pedal go to: http://thebigpedal.org.uk/

ENDS

For further information please contact the Press Office

Telephone: 0117 927 7555; Fax: 0117 930 4149; E-mail: press@sustrans.org.uk.

Out of office hours – 07802 986728

Photo Librarians – Jonathan Bewley & Chandra Prasad 0117 915 0120 photos@sustrans.org.uk

ISDN line available for radio interviews

Notes to editors

Total child journeys to school – 760,050

Includes child scooter journeys and child cycle journeys.

Total distance of child journeys to school - 1,140,075 miles/1,881,124 km

Number of journeys multiplied by average distance of journey to school for 5-10 year olds (1.5 miles/2.5 km)

Number of car journeys saved - 1,520,100

Assumes all journeys to school are return trips which would otherwise have been made by car, and each child journey to school represents 1 car (NTS average car occupancy for education trips is 2)

Total distance of car journeys saved - 2,280,150 miles/3,762,248 km

Number of car journeys saved multiplied by average distance of journey to school

for 5-10 year olds (above)

Cost of total fuel savings for the school year - £2,947,878.62

Based on cycling levels during the Big Pedal being maintained over a whole school year and all journeys cycled being return trips which would otherwise have been made by car

At the launch of 2012's Big Pedal, Britain's top cyclist Mark Cavendish said:

"It's great to see more people out and about cycling and I always smile when I see a family or a child on a bike.

"The Big Pedal is a great Sustrans competition to get more kids out on two wheels.

"So many kids want to cycle so we should make it easy for them to get around by bike and to be fit and healthy.

"It's brilliant to see Sustrans encouraging children from a young age to be happy, independent and free-range, and maybe even feel inspired to become future British cycling champions."

Argoed people choose heroes for new artwork

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:25:40 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 29 March, 2012

Argoed residents are being given an historic chance to choose three local champions to immortalise in steel as part of a project from charity Sustrans.

The new Quoits Wood Crossing along the Blackwood to Hollybush walking and cycling route is to get a new 'Portrait Bench' that will feature three life-size images of local heroes cut from steel

The benches are being created on routes across the UK as part of a Sustrans project, which received £50million from the Big Lottery Fund to bring the National Cycle Network to the heart of local communities.

The people of Argoed are being asked to nominate figures that reflect the area's history and culture. Some of the suggestions so far include musicians Paul and Huw Watkins, co-leader of the Chartist movement in Wales Zephaniah Williams, and an Ancient Druid whose natural spring provided the villagers with beautiful, clear water. One of the figures could be someone living in Argoed today who stands out for their contribution in the local community.

Suggestions for the three figures can be emailed to rachel.lister@sustrans.org.uk or sent in the post to Quoits Wood Crossing, Sustrans Cymru, 123 Bute Street, Cardiff, CF10 5AE by Monday 16 April 2012.

The children of Markham Primary School will also be researching the local area and putting forward their suggestions. The three chosen figures will be chosen by the steering group supporting the scheme.

The Portrait Bench will be installed later this year on the National Cycle Network Route 467 in the Sirhowy Valley between Markham and Blackwood.

Rachel Lister, Sustrans Cymru Project Manager for the scheme, said; "Quoits Wood Crossing was named such by the children of Markham Primary School and this is another wonderful opportunity for the community to become involved by choosing their favourite characters for the Portrait Bench. When it is complete, the bench will be a great place for people to stop, rest and enjoy this magnificent area and new walking and cycling route, so it's a hugely important part of the project."

The new Quoits Wood Crossing has been funded through the Valleys Regional Park initiative with the support of the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, specifically to enhance the tourism potential of the Valleys. It is part of an ongoing project delivered by Sustrans and local authorities that will see the creation of an additional 100 miles of new walking and cycling paths across the south Wales Valleys.

/ends

For more information on Sustrans or to request interviews, please contact

0117 927 7555 press@sustrans.org.uk

For pictures, please contact Sustrans Picture Library

Tel: 0117 915 0120 Email photos@sustrans.org.uk

Press Office Out of office hours – 07802 986728

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

The project to create 100 extra miles of National Cycle Network in the south Wales valleys is led by the sustainable transport charity Sustrans and involving both Sewta (the South East Wales Transport Alliance) and SWWITCH (The South West Wales Integrated Transport Consortium). The three year project will receive a total of £17 million funding. This includes £9million from the Welsh Assembly Government, £6.4million from the Convergence European Regional Development Fund and £1million from the Big Lottery Fund.

The £3.2bn Structural Funds programmes 2007-2013 in Wales include the Convergence programmes for West Wales and the Valleys (the successor to Objective 1), and the Regional Competitiveness and Employment programmes for East Wales. The programmes are delivered through the Welsh Assembly Government and are aimed at creating employment opportunities and boosting economic growth.

Valleys Regional Park is a network of visitor facilities, country parks, heritage sites and nature reserves across the Valleys. The Valleys Regional Park will make a significant contribution to the promotion of the Valleys as the Heart and Soul of Wales and is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government.

Sustrans' Connect2 is a UK-wide project that will transform local travel in communities, creating new bridges and crossings to overcome busy roads, rivers and railways, and linking these to networks of walking and cycling routes, making it easier for millions of people to walk and cycle for everyday journeys.

Sustrans' Connect2 won £50 million from the Big Lottery Fund's Living Landmarks: The People's Millions as a result of a public vote televised on ITV1 in December 2007. This is the largest ever single lottery grant. Combined with match funding, the project is worth £142million.

The Big Lottery Fund, the largest of the National Lottery good cause distributors, has been rolling out grants to health, education, environment and charitable causes across the UK since its inception in June 2004. It was established by Parliament on 1 December 2006. Big Lottery Fund Press Office: 020 7211 1888. Out of hours: 07867 500 572. Full details of Big Lottery Fund projects and grant awards are available at: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk

Ideas in Transit

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:20:54 GMT

Last year academics at the University of the West of England interviewed a number of walkit.com users as part of the first phase of their Ideas in Transit research project. This year they are looking to investigate motivations and experiences in [...]

Top cyclist Mark Cavendish gets UK kids cycling

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:43:26 GMT

Issued: Tuesday 28 February, 2012

World champion Mark Cavendish is encouraging kids, parents and teachers from 900 schools across the UK to get on their bikes for the journey to school this March as part of Sustrans’ Big Pedal.

The Big Pedal is the UK’s biggest school cycling competition to get kids active and raise money for the charity Sustrans - with top prizes up for grabs for the schools that involve most people.

Britain’s top cyclist Mark Cavendish said: “It’s great to see more people out and about cycling and I always smile when I see a family or a child on a bike.

“The Big Pedal is a great Sustrans competition to get more kids out on two wheels.

“So many kids want to cycle so we should make it easy for them to get around by bike and to be fit and healthy.

“It's brilliant to see Sustrans encouraging children from a young age to be happy, independent and free-range, and maybe even feel inspired to become future British cycling champions.”

Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent do – the three week competition will show children and their parents just how easy it is to get around on two wheels.

Carl Pittam Sustrans Director for English Regions said; “It’s amazing to see so many schools signed up to take part in this year’s competition. Sustrans is helping thousands of children across the country to be out and about, active and independent, with the freedom to get around on foot or by bike.

“The success of last year’s competition proves just how much kids want to be able to cycle to school and we know for a fact that plenty of children continued to cycle to school as a result.”

The race is funded by the bicycle industry through its Bike Hub. Phillip Darnton Executive Director of the Bicycle Association added; “The future of cycling depends on every generation of kids learning and wanting to cycle. What better way to get started than joining in the Big Pedal.

“The cycle industry through its Bike Hub levy is delighted to fund this event for another year. 2012 is a very special year; the Big Pedal marks the start of the Summer of Cycling – a new campaign bringing together everyone who cycles and encouraging them to introduce one new-comer to cycling during the year.”

For more information and to see which schools in your area are taking part in the Big Pedal go to: http://thebigpedal.org.uk/

ENDS

For further information please contact the Press Office

Telephone: 0117 927 7555; Fax: 0117 930 4149; E-mail: press@sustrans.org.uk.

Out of office hours – 07802 986728

Photo Librarians – Jonathan Bewley & Chandra Prasad 0117 915 0120 photos@sustrans.org.uk

ISDN line available for radio interviews

Notes

Sustrans is the charity that’s enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we make every day. It’s time we all began making smarter travel choices. Make your move and support Sustrans today. www.sustrans.org.uk

The Big Pedal is part of Sustrans Free Range Kids campaign: Sustrans believes every child deserves to be free range, with freedom from their front door to explore, play outdoors, and make their own way to school and beyond. Find out more, join in and speak out for Free Range Kids at www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids

Summer of cycling is a new campaign organised by a number of cycling and transport organisations designed to encourage more people to cycle http://www.summerofcycling.net/

The statistic “Nearly half of all children want to be able to get to school by bike but only four per cent do” is based on data collected from schools where Sustrans works.

The Big Pedal is funded by the British cycle industry under the "Bike Hub" levy scheme. Bike Hub is an industry wide initiative developed by The Bicycle Association of Great Britain and the Association of Cycle Traders. The objective of Bike Hub is to generate funds through voluntary contributions from within the cycle industry to invest in projects in order to safeguard the future of cycling.

Prizes for the race have been provided by ‘Team M.A.D’ (Europe’s best-known mountain bike team) www.m-a-d.co.uk

Prizes have also been supplied by Cyclepods Ltd. The Minipod offers a colourful, attractive and secure parking solution for up to eight bikes and eight scooters made from 100% recycled or recyclable materials. http://www.cyclepods.co.uk/

Prizes have also been supplied by Fishers Outdoor - one of the UK's leading distributors of cycles and cycle accessories, and Weldtite -manufacturers of the world’s most comprehensive and innovative range of bicycle maintenance products.

Half of Wales Faces Debt from Transport Costs

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:10:16 GMT

Issued on: Monday 27 February, 2012

More than a million people in Wales could struggle to afford the costs of running a car [note 1], and a lack of alternatives is forcing many people to choose between getting into debt and being cut off from jobs, healthcare, shops and schools, according to a hard-hitting report from a group of charities in Wales.

The report, Access Denied, calls on politicians to recognise the complexities of and tackle the growing problem ‘transport poverty’. With a quarter of households having no car at all, and fuel costs set to continue rising, the report calls for more investment in alternatives such as public transport, car clubs and routes for walking and cycling.

The report is backed by Age Cymru, Citizens Advice Cymru, Save the Children and Sustrans Cymru who agree that without investment now, the problem will only get worse. The charities point out that many people in transport poverty aren’t just unable to afford a car, but also find it difficult to cover the costs of public transport.

Lee Waters, National Director of Sustrans Cymru said “It is shameful that not having a car in many parts of Wales severely limits your chances in life.

“In assuming that everyone has easy access to a car, we have forced thousands into ownership that they simply can’t afford. Or, worse still, we’ve left them stranded. If Wales is serious about tackling poverty, we must make sure that people can access the jobs and services they need, regardless of where they live.

“This means building a transport system that is available to all, not just those who can afford to drive.”

Cy Westbrook (pictured above right) lives around three miles from the centre of Swansea, and gave up her car because of the cost. But, she finds the alternatives to car travel are inadequate; "There are just four buses a day into Swansea from where I live. The first is after 9am so it’s useless for people wanting to commute to work or students going for lectures. As a result the community has started breaking up. Those who would have to rely on bus services have had to move elsewhere, whilst most of those who do live here are reliant on their cars to get around."

Download a copy of Access Denied

/ends

For further information please contact Liz Thorne, Policy and Media Advisor, Sustrans Cymru. a Welsh language press release and version of the resport is available on request.

Telephone: 07857 077 054; E-mail: liz.thorne@sustrans.org.uk

Photo Librarians – Jonathan Bewley & Chandra Prasad 0117 915 0120 photos@sustrans.org.uk

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

Defined here as the number of households that would have to spend 10 per cent of their income on running a car (whether or not they are actually running one). This is just one of the indicators of transport poverty. As well as affecting those who find the costs of running a car a strain, transport poverty affects people who cannot afford a car at all; those who do not have access to a car for other reasons; and those for whom the available public transport may be costly or inadequate.

Levels of transport poverty across Wales are as follows:

RANK	LOCAL AUTHORITY	Approximate total of individuals (thousands)	Total population (2010)	% Population facing transport poverty

1	Blaenau Gwent	39.9	68.4	58.4
2	Merthyr Tydfil	32.2	55.7	57.8
3	Caerphilly	94.7	173.1	54.7
4	Neath Port Talbot	73.8	137.4	53.7
5	Rhondda Cynon Taff	124.5	234.3	53.1
6	Torfaen	47.3	90.5	52.3
7	Bridgend	68.6	134.6	51.0
8	Newport	71.6	141.3	50.7
9	Carmarthenshire	86.4	180.7	47.8
10	Pembrokeshire	55.9	117.1	47.7
11	Wrexham	63.7	133.6	47.7
12	Denbighshire	46.1	96.7	47.6
13	Conwy	52.7	110.9	47.5
14	Swansea	108.9	232.5	46.8
15	Isle of Anglesey	31.9	68.6	46.6
16	Flintshire	69.4	149.7	46.3
17	Gwynedd	52.2	119.0	43.9
18	Powys	57.4	131.3	43.7
19	Vale of Glamorgan	52.3	125.0	41.9
20	Cardiff	141.6	341.1	41.5
21	Monmouthshire	33.4	88.1	37.9
22	Ceredigion	29.0	76.9	37.7

	TOTAL (WALES)	1433.4	3006.4	47.7

The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice, and by influencing policymakers. Citizens Advice delivers services from over 200 locations across Wales. www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Age Cymru is the leading national charity working to improve the lives of all older people in Wales. We believe older people should be able to lead healthy and fulfilled lives, have adequate income, access to high quality services and the opportunity to shape their own future. We seek to provide a strong voice for all older people in Wales and to raise awareness of the issues of importance to them. Age Cymru is the force combining Age Concern Cymru and Help the Aged in Wales: www.agecymru.org.uk

Save the Children works in more than 120 countries. We save children's lives. We fight for their rights. We help them fulfil their potential.

World renowned fashion designer opens Merthyr's new route

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:39:12 GMT

Issued on: Tuesday 21 February, 2012

Fashion designer Julien Macdonald left London Fashion Week early to officially open 'Puddlers Bridge' - the brand new walking and cycling route in his hometown Merthyr Tydfil.

Julien joined Sustrans Cymru, Cllr Jeff Edwards, Leader of Merthyr Tydfil CBC and twenty pupils from Afon Taf school to open the bridge and unveil the new bench. Julien is one of three local icons whose portraits have been sculpted in steel as part of a bench to mark the opening of the new route. He said; 'It's a really special feeling to have the people from the area I grew up in recognise me in this way, and I hope the portrait bench becomes a well-used and familiar part of the landscape.

'Merthyr is a beautiful part of Wales and a route like this one will inspire more people to get out on foot or bike and discover just how beautiful it is.'

The bridge is a new traffic-free crossing on the Trevithick Trail, which links Pentrebach with Merthyr Tydfil town centre, and will allow walkers and cyclists a safer crossing over busy the A4060. It is also part of a series of new walking and cycling links right across the Welsh valleys, which has received funding from the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.

Lee Waters, Sustrans Cymru Director, said; 'Creating safer routes for walking and cycling on is key to encouraging more people to make their short, daily journeys on foot or bike. This bridge, over a very busy road, will be exactly that, and will give everyone more choice about how they travel locally.'

The bridge links up Triangle Business Park, giving people more options for travelling to and from work and giving shoppers better and safer walking and cycling access to the local supermarket.

In partnership with Merthyr Tydfil Country Borough Council, the bridge has been built as part of a national project from charity Sustrans' to build new walking and cycling routes in communities across the UK. The project is part-funded thanks to a £50million from the Big Lottery Fund in 2007.

/ends

For more information on Sustrans or to request interviews, please contact

Wendy Johnson, Sustrans Press Office

Tel 0117 915 0128 / Email: wendy.johnson@sustrans.org.uk

Press Office Out of office hours – 07802 986728

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

The name 'Puddlers Bridge' was suggested by Pentrebach resident Alan Lewis in a recent Sustrans competition. It highlights the history of the local area, as 'Puddlers' used to work in the iron industry vital to this part of south Wales.

Half of people in UK fear our roads are unsafe for cycling

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:47:48 GMT

Issued on: Monday 20 February, 2012

More than half (56 per cent) of us fear urban roads are unsafe to cycle on and 70 per cent want residential speed limits to be dropped to 20 miles per hour to make them safer, according to a new survey released today by the charity Sustrans.

The survey is released ahead of a Parliamentary debate on cycling safety on Thursday 23 February. Politicians are facing mounting pressure to act on the increase in cyclists dying on the road following a campaign by the Times newspaper.

Sixty five per cent of those that don't cycle regularly would be more likely to cycle on the roads if they were made safer through changes like lower speed limits, more marked cycle lanes and more care taken by drivers and other cyclists, according to the new survey.

Malcolm Shepherd, Chief Executive for Sustrans, says:"People shouldn't have to feel they're taking a risk when they travel on two wheels in our towns and cities.

"This is yet another wake-up call for politicians who must act now to save lives and take the fear out of everyday journeys.

"People want to cycle more for every day journeys and they want a twenty miles per hour speed limit in their neighbourhood.

"Ministers must invest in making our streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians and drivers."

ENDS

Notes to editors

The full survey results are available on request from Sustrans press office - 0117 927 7555. The survey was conducted by GfK NOP via a nationally representative telephone omnibus survey. Fieldwork was conducted 10th – 12th February 2012. Weighting was applied to the data to bring it in line with national profiles.

20mph briefing sheet available at http://www.sustrans.org.uk/assets/files/policy/0212_Summary_of_arguments%20_for_20mph.pdf

Scared to cycle case studies and Sustrans spokespeople are available for interview.

Sustrans is calling on UK governments to invest in doubling the number of journeys under five miles made by foot, bike and public transport to four out of five by 2020.

Policy positions and briefings

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:35:36 GMT

Sustrans' policy positions and briefings express and help to explain our vision and the reason we engage in the projects we deliver. Sustrans' position on a wide range of issues is stated below.

Safer cycling in Caerphilly, thanks to newly opened route

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:35:37 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 9 February, 2012

A safer route for walking and cycling at Argoed has been opened by pupils from Markham Primary school today [Thursday 9 February] who named have officially named it Quoits Wood Crossing.

Charity Sustrans Newport Gwent Dragons rugby players and pupils were joined by Christopher Evans MP, Gwyn Price AM and Mark Drakeford AM for the official opening of the new bridge, which links Blackwood and Markham on National Cycle Network Route 467.

The bridge is a traffic-free route allowing walkers, cyclists and horse riders to travel between Blackwood and Markham more safely.

Lee Waters, Sustrans Cymru Director, said; 'If we create the right space for cycling in, and give people the skills and encouragement to get on their bikes, then more people will cycle for their shorter, everyday journeys. Safety is the biggest concern that stops many of us from cycling more often, so investing in safer routes is vital for increasing the proportion of daily journeys done by bike.'

Markham Primary pupils were asked to research and choose a name for the bridge that captured the history and significance of the area. They picked Quoits Wood Crossing as Argoed was once a famous place for playing the traditional game of Quoits and the World Championships were held here.

Pupils Emily Jones and Holly Horton, said; 'It has been brilliant to have the chance to name a bridge. We researched lots of information about the area to come up with names, so it helped us learn more about where we live.'

The new bridge has been funded through the Valleys Regional Parks initiative, the Welsh Government and European Regional Development Fund, specifically to enhance the tourism potential of the Valleys, is part of an ongoing project delivered by Sustrans and local authorities that will see the creation of an additional 100 miles of new walking and cycling paths across the south Wales Valleys.

Cllr Rob Gough, Caerphilly CBC cabinet member said, 'We are delighted to have worked in partnership with Sustrans Cymru to deliver this impressive project and I'm sure this safe, sustainable route will bring benefits the whole community. The new bridge is the 'missing link' along this important route and will enhance the cycle and walking network across the valleys. I'd like to thank our funding partners for making the plans a reality and we now look forward to delivering even more improvements like this across county borough.'

/ends

For further information please contact the Press Office

Telephone: 0117 927 7555; Fax: 0117 930 4149; E-mail: press@sustrans.org.uk

Out of office hours – 07802 986728

Photo Librarians – Jonathan Bewley & Chandra Prasad 0117 915 0120 photos@sustrans.org.uk

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

Valleys Regional Park is a network of visitor facilities, country parks, heritage sites and nature reserves across the Valleys. The Valleys Regional Park will make a significant contribution to the promotion of the Valleys as the Heart and Soul of Wales and s part funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Assembly Government.

Safe Westminster walking and cycling route to go ahead

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:04:13 GMT

Issued on: Thursday 9 February, 2012

A half a million pound project to provide a safer, traffic-free walking and cycling route from Paddington Basin to Maida Vale will go ahead following an agreement signed between the project partners yesterday [Wednesday 8 February, 2012].

The agreement between charity Sustrans and City of Westminster confirms their commitment to creating a safe crossing over the very busy Harrow Road and underneath the A40.

Carl Pittam, Sustrans' London Director, says; 'This is an important step forward in the development of this new route that will give people more choice about how they make short local journeys.

'Once its complete, people on foot or bike will be able to use the route to access Paddington Station, and get between work, school and home in more active and healthy ways. It's a vital link for local people.'

Construction work will begin immediately and is due to finish in May, when the route will open for use.

Cllr Lee Rowley, cabinet member for parking and transport, said: 'We warmly welcome Sustrans as a partner to open up another cycling route in the heart of London. Ensuring cyclists can get around our busy city efficiently and safely is very important to Westminster and this is another step towards achieving this.'

Funding for the route has come from Sustrans' lottery-funding, secured in 2007 as part of a national project extending the National Cycle Network into communities across the UK, as well as City of Westminster, Transport for London and other developer contributions.

/ends

For more information on Sustrans or to request interviews, please contact

Sustrans Press Office Tel 0117 915 0128

For pictures, please contact Sustrans Picture Library

Tel: 0117 915 0120 Email photos@sustrans.org.uk

Press Office Out of office hours – 07802 986728

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

Big Lottery Fund Press Office: 020 7211 1888. out of hours: 07867 500 572. Full details of Big Lottery Fund projects and grant awards are available at: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk

Transform everyday journeys with ‘The complete National Cycle Network’ app – now on Android

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:40:30 GMT

Issued on: Tuesday 31 January, 2012

The popular 'The complete National Cycle Network' app from charity Sustrans has now been released on Android, bringing 25,000 miles of walking and cycling routes to your finger tips, wherever you are in the UK.

Download the app for the Android Market by clicking here - or search 'Sustrans' from your Andorid phone.

Over 50,000 people have already downloaded the iPhone app, which was launched in May last year, and now Sustrans has provided the mapping for Android phones. The free app uses Sustrans' OS based online mapping facility and it has been specifically designed to help people make more of their everyday journeys on foot or by bike.

Martyn Brunt, Sustrans National Cycle Network Development Manager, said, "The iPhone app has proved a great success in allowing thousands of people to find safe and direct walking and cycling routes while on the go.

"The high standards Sustrans has applied in developing the National Cycle Network mean it shows the best routes for walking and cycling across the UK, and the level of local detail, no matter where you are, makes it a great 'go-to' app for local knowledge, everyday travel or leisure.

"When we released the iphone app last year, our most-asked question was: 'when can I get this on Android?', so we're delighted to be able to satisfy that clear demand."

The app includes 25,000 miles of route - including all 13,000 miles of award winning National Cycle Network and a further 12,000 miles of regional and local routes and links. Whether it is for picking your way through an urban metropolis to work, winding through the countryside for leisure, finding a traffic-free route to school, a challenging bike ride or a fun family day out, 'The complete National Cycle Network' app has something for everyone.

Sustrans mapping doesn't just provide routes, it highlights local grocery shops, schools, libraries, museums, sports centres and other local amenities, along with leisure attractions, places of interest and information on car clubs, bike shops and public transport.

All routes have been assessed and approved to be included in the mapping and are shown at a 1:10000 scale. It integrates with the public transport network and provides links to the Transport Direct journey planning website, making it easier to get bus and train updates from any location so you can plan longer journeys. The app also recommends routes for easy local travel as well as more long distance ones for leisure walks and rides.

The latest route developments and additions to the Network will be updated fortnightly and you can plan and save routes or share them with your friends. You can also record and keep a GPS track of your route as you walk or ride along and centre the map on your current location.

'The complete National Cycle Network' app has been created by Isomaly and has been funded by the Scottish Government and Sustrans.

"The complete National Cycle Network " app is now available on iTunes for iPhone and the Android Market.

/ends

For further information please contact the Press Office

Telephone: 0117 927 7555; Fax: 0117 930 4149; E-mail: press@sustrans.org.uk.

Press Officer – Matthew Hemsley 0117 915 0123

Out of office hours – 07802 986728

Photo Librarians – Jonathan Bewley & Chandra Prasad 0117 915 0120 photos@sustrans.org.uk

ISDN line available for radio interviews

NOTES

Sustrans' flagship project, the National Cycle Network, is now around 13,000 miles long and within one mile of 58 per cent of the British population. It carries over one million walking and cycling journeys every day.

Sustrans is calling on UK governments to invest in doubling the number of journeys under five miles made by foot, bike and public transport to four out of five by 2020.

There are around 3,000 volunteers helping with Sustrans' work.

New walking and cycling scheme unveiled in Belfast

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:31:06 GMT

Issued on: 3 February 2012

In Northern Ireland, plans for a new cycling and walking route linking the Comber Greenway and the Titanic Quarter have been unveiled today [Friday 3 February, 2012]

First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA, the Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA, and Naomi Long MP came together at the new Belfast Metropolitan College campus in the Titanic Quarter to unveil the plans.

The route is being delivered by Sustrans, via the Big Lottery Fund, on behalf of Belfast City Council, DRD Roads Service, Belfast Harbour and Translink will run through Ballymacarrett to the new £90 million Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and will allow residents in east Belfast to access Titanic Quarter safely and easily, without needing a car.

As part of the scheme, an old access road into the former docks area will be re-opened, allowing users to avoid busy roads but enjoy a quick and direct link into Titanic Quarter. Four new crossings will be installed at Kings Road, Beersbridge Road, Dee Street and Sydenham Road, and the Bridge End railway halt also will be upgraded, with improved pedestrian and cycle access. Titanic Quarter is also easily accessible by foot or cycle from the River Lagan pathways.

The Mayor said: "This is an invaluable project which will greatly enhance access to the Titanic Quarter for the people of east Belfast, and beyond, whether they are going to work there, visit the new Titanic Belfast centre or study here at Belfast Met.

"Belfast City Council is committed not only to opening up the city and making it accessible to all, but also to encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles, through walking and cycling, for example. This scheme – which I am delighted to say is only one of many being developed across the city – fulfils both of those objectives and the council is delighted to support it."

Steven Patterson, Director of Sustrans Northern Ireland, added: "Local people want to make more of their everyday journeys on foot and by bike – this new route will mean many more will be able to get around actively and safely. The Greenways in Belfast are hugely popular with locals and visitors alike and this new section will complete a strategic link.

"We thank the Mayor for his support and welcome the First and Deputy First Ministers, who have come to see the project for themselves. We hope they will be inspired to go the extra mile with support for cycling and walking routes right across Northern Ireland."

Frank Hewitt, Big Lottery Fund NI Chair, concluded: "Sustrans was awarded £50m from the Big Lottery Fund's 'Living Landmarks: People's Millions' competition to create new cycling and walking routes to improve local travel in communities across the United Kingdom.

"One of those routes is the scheme linking the Comber Greenway to the Titanic Quarter and I am delighted that work is beginning on this important project, which will create a safe and traffic-free route for local people."

/ends

For further information, please refer media enquiries to:

Mark Ashby, Media Relations Officer, Belfast City Council

Tel: +44 (0)28 9027 0641

NOTES:

Details of the new walking and cycle way will be unveiled by the Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Niall Ó Donnghaile, at Belfast Metropolitan College, Queen's Road, at 10am today (Friday 3 February). Among the guests at the announcement will be the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA, the Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA, and Naomi Long MP, who all have been long-term supporters of the Comber Greenway project.

Funding for the project has come from Sustrans, via the Big Lottery Fund, alongside Belfast City Council, DRD Roads Service, Belfast Harbour and Translink.

Walking across America

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:04:03 GMT

Regular walkit.com users Lucy and Nick Russell are taking sabbaticals from work in order to complete a 6-month walk across America. They are hoping to raise money for their charity The Pamir Trust, and to raise awareness of the [...]

London ranks among worst European cities for air pollution

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:47:05 GMT

There’s a lot of talk at the moment about the shocking state of London’s air (and failure to improve it). There is a lot of good work going on in London, funded by various Boroughs and TfL, but questions have been [...]

Rohan announces StrideFit

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 12:02:09 GMT

Rohan – purveyors of outdoor clothing, equipment and footwear – have announced a new programme to help people walk for exercise more and in some case start walking for fitness in the first place. The initiative is based on research commissioned [...]

Watch the Frackulous video review of our iPhone app

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 09:46:27 GMT

We came across this great little video review of our iPhone app yesterday, from the nice people at Frackulous. As they say: “Walking does not kill polar bears, does not encourage laziness, and does not result in you getting stuck in traffic [...]

Can you help Charlie?

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:06:36 GMT

Charlie Doherty contacted us yesterday for help with a problem he was experiencing with our new iPhone app. During our conversation, it transpired that Charlie, along with his mum, is at the beginning of a 4 week expedition to cycle from [...]

Guest blog: Don’t get caught in the rain this summer

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:53:26 GMT

The UK is experiencing one of the wettest summers ever. But have you got your waterproofs packed? City worker Adam of GO Outdoors explains why waterproof clothing is so essential for this summer. Wherever you go in London, you have to [...]

Hey hey – we’re on the front page of the App Store

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:49:50 GMT

And not just the navigation section, but the whole thing!

Travel Plans National News Feed

McDevitt's Bill will help Northern Ireland become more active

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Government agrees station funding

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Cycling and walking routes to be provided by law in Wales

Scunthorpe man’s dream finally realised as The Ridgeway opens

Liverpool on walkit.com

The Great British Walking Challenge

School travel in gaping hole in Mayoral candidates' plans

Wales goes further to cut car journeys

Three day bike adventure is on

Life-size portrait of 'The Voice' chosen in Treforest

Londoners to quiz Boris and Ken about cycling - Hustings event announced

Kids cycle a million miles to save parents fuel cash

Argoed people choose heroes for new artwork

Ideas in Transit

Top cyclist Mark Cavendish gets UK kids cycling

Half of Wales Faces Debt from Transport Costs

World renowned fashion designer opens Merthyr's new route

Half of people in UK fear our roads are unsafe for cycling

Policy positions and briefings

Policy positions

Briefings

Parliamentary briefings

Safer cycling in Caerphilly, thanks to newly opened route

Safe Westminster walking and cycling route to go ahead

Transform everyday journeys with ‘The complete National Cycle Network’ app – now on Android

New walking and cycling scheme unveiled in Belfast

Walking across America

London ranks among worst European cities for air pollution

Rohan announces StrideFit

Watch the Frackulous video review of our iPhone app

Can you help Charlie?

Guest blog: Don’t get caught in the rain this summer

Hey hey – we’re on the front page of the App Store