Assembly backs walking and cycling in Wales
A major step forward has been made in encouraging Local Authorities in Wales to develop and maintain a network of paths for walkers and cyclists.
Two years ago Sustrans presented a petition to the National Assembly for Wales with the backing of a wide range of organisations including BT, the Royal Mail, the Children's Commissioner for Wales, the British Medical Association and Age Concern, who are all concerned about climate change and the growing problem of obesity in Wales.
After two years of resisting the proposals, the Welsh Assembly Government has now announced it will back the National Assembly Enterprise & Learning Committee's proposed legislation on Highways and Transport. The proposed legislation could lead to a duty on local authorities to ensure the creation and upkeep of a network of pedestrian and cycle routes across Wales.
Highways Authorities will be required to think about the needs of pedestrians and cyclists with the same commitment they give to providing for cars.
Currently, when a Council builds a mile of road they receive money to maintain it, but when they build a path for cyclists and pedestrians they get nothing. Many Councils don't want to create a financial liability and therefore don't put in place attractive facilities to encourage people out of their cars. The proposed new law will address this.
This announcement is a vital step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable Wales.