a day ago
Scottish Government announces £23.5 million for active travel
The cash is intended for programmes that will improve walking and cycling across the country, with projects required to satisfy one of four themes based around schools, businesses, accessibility and inclusion or capacity and capability.
Returning for a second year, the funding will also expand to potentially help fund other sustainable travel projects, including demand-led buses.
Announcing the funding on Friday at a project in Armadale, West Lothian, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: 'It is really important that we support people and communities to make different choices about how they get around in their local areas, and making it easier and safer to walk, wheel and cycle is a key part of that.
(Image: Supplied)
'So I am pleased to announce that over £23 million has now been allocated to support projects which will help to achieve this. It forms part of over £188 million that we are allocating for active and sustainable travel in 2025-26.'
She added: 'The Scottish Government is investing significantly to create appropriate infrastructure – but we also need to invest in projects, similar to the Walking Bus, that widen access, encourage participation and support uptake in schools and workplaces.
'In doing so, we will encourage a shift away from cars and towards more sustainable travel that improves health, saves people money and reduces emissions.'
Ranald Robertson, the director of Hitrans – the regional transport partnership for the Highlands and Islands – said he was 'delighted' with the funding.
'We look forward to supporting a wide range of active and sustainable travel behaviour change initiatives, tailored to the specific needs of local schools, workplaces and communities across Scotland, to help increase the number of people walking, wheeling, cycling or taking public transport for their journeys,' he added.
