Shropshire Star

New health strategy for Telford and Wrekin is approved

A new strategy aimed at encouraging residents to cycle and walk more actively and frequently has received the all-clear from councillors.

Published

The Telford and Wrekin cycling and walking strategy aims to provide a safe and attractive network of routes.

It was given the go-ahead by Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet during a meeting at Addenbrooke House on Thursday evening.

Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for cycleways, said the reason the strategy was needed is to ensure that resources are focused in the right areas to continue to encourage more walking and cycling in the borough.

Deputy leader, Councillor Richard Overton said: "I think health and wellbeing of our communities is key.

"We want people to enjoy the areas we have got in Telford. It should be welcomed by all."

In recent years, the council has been successful in securing external funding into sustainable transport improvements such as the new National Cycle Route 55 connection between Newport and Stafford and the Telford Central footbridge.

Alongside this, the council has also invested in maintenance of the borough’s infrastructure through the Pride In Your Community programme, which will see a further £1.4m invested in footways and cycleways over the next two years.