Coronavirus: £38m announced for cycling and walking routes

QUOTE:
A total of £38m in funding has been announced to improve cycling and walking facilities in Wales.

Bike sales surged in lockdown as people avoided public transport for fear of catching Covid-19.

Economy and Transport Deputy Minister, Lee Waters, said he wanted people to leave the car in the garage following the pandemic.

Last month ministers said roads, public transport, walking and cycling routes would get £15.4m worth of improvements.

Combined with the new cash, the Welsh Government said it would be the biggest ever investment in healthy travel in Wales.

"The coronavirus pandemic has completely changed our lives," Mr Waters said..

"Coronavirus has brought much hardship and tragedy.

"It has also presented us with a golden opportunity for change.

"More people than ever before are walking and cycling to work, visit friends and pop to the shop."

Mr Waters said fewer drivers meant new cyclists had the confidence to hit the road without the car.

But as roads become busier as restrictions ease it was "vital" roads remained pedestrian and bike-friendly, he added.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53451112