Funding for local transport schemes gets go-ahead

The Government today approved 30 local transport schemes to the tune of £113m as part of efforts to boost local economies.

The second allocation from the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) boosted interventions aimed at delivering economic growth and reducing carbon emissions.

Transport minister Norman Baker said: 'The schemes we are funding today will benefit communities from Devon to Durham by cutting carbon emissions, reducing congestion and stimulating economic growth in these areas.

'By investing in these projects we are signalling our commitment to green growth which will help to kick-start economic activity in local areas while improving access to healthier forms of transport and addressing the problem of climate change.'

Among the schemes given cash was a plan to reduce rush hour traffic congestion in Slough through boosting active travel and public transport. The council says this will improve local air quality, deliver public health benefits and boost local businesses.

Durham County Council got £4.75m for a joint-project with eight local councils and national pedestrian charity, Living Streets, to increase the number of children walking to school.

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