The UK Government has unveiled plans to develop a local transport fund to help reduce carbon emissions in the country.

The fund will allow local transport authorities outside London to draft schemes that support economic growth, improve safety and increase levels of physical activity.

The measures could include encouraging walking and cycling, better public transport and improved traffic management schemes.

“Local Transport Minister Norman Baker said: “It is at a local level that the most can be done to change patterns of behaviour and encourage more sustainable travel, especially for short journeys.

“And in an environment of tighter budgets and greater local flexibility, the government is determined to reduce bureaucracy and make local transport funding more efficient,” said Baker.

The UK’s department of transport will provide funding for the new plans.

The details about the new fund, including the resources available and its mode of operation, will be revealed later this year.