£27m boost for region’s transport infrastructure

Communities in Yorkshire and the Humber will benefit from more than £27m to increase light rail services, regenerate local economies and make roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists,

The support was confirmed by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

The region has been allocated a share of £225m announced earlier this month, to create new and permanent cycle lanes and reallocate road space to give more room to pedestrians and cyclists.

Shapps said: “From NHS staff to transport and shop workers, teachers, volunteers and all those staying at home, people across the country are all sharing the same public-spirited approach to tackling the spread of this virus and keeping others safe.

“To make sure people can travel safely when they need to, we are increasing capacity on buses and light rail, as well as helping local authorities fast-track plans to support cyclists and pedestrians, further reducing pressure on our transport network.

“These measures will help keep passengers safe now, but we must also prepare for what comes next.

“Strengthening vital road and railway connections, as well as encouraging cycling and walking, will be essential to our ambition to level up the country, secure a green legacy, and kickstart regional economies, as we build out of Covid-19 and look to the future.”

Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “We’re living in a time where many people are cycling and walking more than they did before, and we must build on this opportunity to bring about longer-term change – where active travel is viewed as the default for shorter journeys, long after this crisis has finished.

“This funding for Yorkshire and the Humber will help councils provide more space for walking and cycling and make it easier for people to get out and about and reduce the pressure on public transport.”

The Government is also investing almost £100,000 to make stations across Yorkshire and Humber better for people who want to build cycling into part of a longer journey once restrictions are eased.

This investment from the latest round of Cycle Rail funding will pay for 105 bike spaces at four railway stations.