Thank you for contacting me about Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
I am pleased with the progress we have made over the past six years to encourage more cycling and walking. Cycling rates have increased in areas where dedicated funding has been made available, and spending on cycling has risen from around £2 per person in 2010 to £6 per person in England in 2016-17. However, I believe there is still more we can do improve and build on the current success. I want to see walking and cycling become the natural choices for shorter journeys, or as part of a longer journey.
I welcome that the Local Enterprise Partnership for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire is partnering with Nottingham City Council to develop a LCWIP. Moreover, it is good news that Derby and Nottingham have been shortlisted as part of the Transforming Cities Fund, which will see them receive an initial £50,000 of funding and bespoke Government support to develop their proposals for improved transport infrastructure. If their bid is successful, they will receive a share of the remaining £840 million fund to improve transport, for example cycling and walking infrastructure.
For too long, cycling has been seen as a niche activity, instead of a normal activity for all. We all stand to gain a lot if we can increase the amount of walking and cycling done in this country. The possible benefits are substantial and could mean cheaper travel and better health for people. For businesses, it means increased productivity and increased footfall in shops. And for society as a whole it means lower congestion, better air quality, and vibrant, attractive places and communities.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.