AN extra £10million to promote walking and cycling has been announced by the Transport Minister.

 

Derek Mackay said the cash would take the budget for the coming year to £36m.

He said it would help achieve the target of more journeys taken by bike.

The cash will be allocated to the sustainable and active travel budget and to groups like Sustrans to promote cycling and for improvements to cycling infrastructure.

Mr Mackay said: ""This Scottish Government is firmly committed to supporting active and sustainable travel. This latest funding shows our determination to achieve our shared vision of 10% of everyday journeys being undertaken by bike by 2020, as set out in the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland.

"My officials at Transport Scotland will be writing out shortly to Sustrans, Cycling Scotland and other organisations receiving funding in 2015-16 to confirm budget allocations but suffice to say that I am very excited about what we collectively can achieve in the coming year and beyond."

The £36million will include £14m for the sustainable and active travel budget, £8 million funding through the ring-fenced Cycling, Walking and Safer Streets.

John Lauder, National Director of Sustrans, said: "This increase to the budget is very welcome and will build on the solid momentum that has been gathering pace over the past three years to create better conditions for people to walk and cycle for their short, everyday trips."