Blackpool gets pedal power
Blackpool has succeeded in winning a share of a £100m Government scheme to encourage cycling.
It has been confirmed that the resort will become a Cycling Demonstration Town and could receive up to £6m over the next three years to help put in place innovative new cycling facilities.
The judges were particularly impressed with Blackpool's plans to provide a cycle hire scheme that links the town's attractions; plans to use cycling to improve health; and projects that build on the impressive range of cycling events already taking place in the resort including Ride The Lights, the Tour Of Britain and the annual July Cycle Festival.
It will also build on Blackpool's strong network of cycle paths and the programme to train school children to ride their bikes safely.
Cllr Don Clapham, who helped present the town's case, said: "It is great to see we are being recognised for the work we have done already to encourage cycling and that we are being supported to be ambitious in bringing about new facilities for people of all ages."
The bid, which was supported by Cycling England and the Department for Transport, aims to encourage more of the town's residents and its millions of visitors to take up cycling.
There is a strong emphasis on improving the health of Blackpool residents and in the longer term reducing obesity levels.
Senior Council staff will now work on the detailed plans for approval by Cycling England so that schemes can start to be delivered on the ground from January 2009.