MORE than £4million could be invested in projects that would improve bus facilities and almost double the number of people cycling to and from the city centre by 2025.

Over the next six years a strategic cycling plan is hoped to see the number of cyclists rise from from 7,636 per day, as recorded in 2014, to 15,000 by 2025.

Plans to increase the overall length of the Glasgow cycle network from 310km to 400km in 2025 and to 590km thereafter have also been unveiled in a bid to make Glasgow one of the most sustainable “cycling cities” in Europe.

It is hoped that by 2025 every school in Glasgow will have cycle shelters and that Glasgow Life will be supporting a network of social riding groups across the city, more children will be cycling to school and every pupil achieves their Bikeability award.

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An established a cycle training pathway from pre-school to adulthood is also expected to be operational citywide.

The city administration committee is expected to accept a total funding of £4,274,000 from the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, Paths for All:Smarter Choices Smarter Places and Cycling, Walking & Safer Streets to deliver these projects.

The SPT funding totals £2.7m and is earmarked for bus infrastructure improvements.

Another £1.01m is from the CWSS and £0.5m from SCSP.

While developing a more efficient public transport service to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and prioritise active travel, it is hoped cycling will become accessible, safe and attractive to everyone.

The scheme aims to encourage less car use and provide opportunities to make journeys by foot, bicycle and public transport easier.

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Councillor Anna Richardson, city convenor for sustainability and carbon reduction, will present a report to the committee on Thursday.

She said: “We are working across a wide range of initiatives to improve sustainable transport in Glasgow. How this funding will be specifically allocated across these initiatives is something that will require further work.

“But with almost £4.3m available it’s clear this money will make a significant contribution to the council’s commitment to making sustainable transport increasingly attractive in Glasgow.”

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Included in the proposals are off-road paths, segregated cycle tracks, buffer zones to protect cyclists if the removal of parking is not possible, and early starts for cyclists at signalised junctions.

Work of this nature is already being carried out in Sighthill. Designated space has allowed cyclists to continue their journey into the city.

Ms Richardson added: “A large proportion of the money will go towards enhancing bus infrastructure which, in turn, can help to make bus services a more reliable and viable option for passengers.

“The remainder of the fund will go towards supporting our plans for cycling and walking, such as safer cycling routes and better footways.

“The aim is to improve our urban environment while also making better connections for travel across the city.”