UK cycling
The investment is said to be the largest ever boost for cyclists and pedestrians in the UK. Credit: Tejvan Pettinger.

The Government of UK is set to invest £2bn to encourage cycling, walking and to support e-scooter trials.

The move is aimed to mitigate pressure from public transportation services and reduce the resurgence risks of Covid-19 cases, as the country gradually relaxes coronavirus-related restrictions.

As part of the plan, the government allocated a £250m emergency active travel fund to create pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, cycle and bus-only corridors, wider pavements and safer junctions.

A fast-tracked statutory guidance was issued to enable local councils to reallocate road space for cyclists and pedestrians. The plan includes assigning some streets as bike and bus-only while other roads will be available for motorists.

The government also plans to issue vouchers for cycle repairs and offer greater provision of bike fixing facilities to further encourage people to switch to cycling for commuting.

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “During this crisis, millions of people have discovered cycling, whether for exercise or as a means of safe, socially-distanced transport.

“While there is no change to the ‘stay at home’ message today, when the country does get back to work we need those people to stay on their bikes and be joined by many more. Otherwise, with public transport’s capacity severely restricted at this time, our trains and buses could become overcrowded and our roads gridlocked, holding up emergency services, critical workers and vital supplies.

“We know cars will continue to remain vital for many, but as we look to the future we must build a better country with greener travel habits, cleaner air and healthier communities.”

In addition, the government decided to conduct e-scooter trials in June, a programme which was earlier scheduled in the next year.

The trials will be offered to all local areas across the country. It is expected to help the authorities in determining the benefits of e-scooters as an alternative mode of transport.