WIREDGOV

Transport Minister sees how cycling investment is improving journeys in one of London’s most popular cycling boroughs.

Transport Minister Lord Ahmad visited Richmond yesterday (23 July 2015) to see first-hand how cycling investment is making journeys simpler, faster and safer.

Richmond is one of the most cycle-friendly boroughs in the capital, with 5% of all trips starting there being made by bicycle.

The minister was given a tour of key cycling locations when he met local councillors to discuss how new facilities and cycle routes are transforming the lives of commuter and leisure cyclists who travel in the borough and beyond.

The visit allowed Lord Ahmad to see the recently upgraded cycle parking and hire hub at Richmond station, review the A316 cycle route at Richmond Circus and walk across Richmond Bridge to consider how best to approach the sharing of road space.

Transport Minister Lord Ahmad said:

This is a great example of how investing in cycling can make journeys quicker, easier and safer.

Whether it is for commuting or leisure, more and more people are getting on their bike. Our £200 million investment in cycle lanes and better infrastructure will not only bring huge health benefits but also reduce the amount of pollution and congestion on our roads.

The government is committed to doubling the number of journeys made by bicycle with unprecedented levels of long-term funding available in the Local Growth Fund providing vital support to local councils that wish to invest £10 per head in cycling.

The investment will unlock significant health benefits, save billions of pounds for the NHS, and reduce pollution and congestion in the capital and beyond.

Local transport media enquiries

Press enquiries 020 7944 3118

Out of hours 020 7944 4292

Public enquiries 0300 330 3000