HAMPSHIRE is set to receive millions of pounds to boost local economies and transform the school run for children. 

The Government is giving £14.9m of funding for cycling and walking schemes in Hampshire and other communities across South East England. 

Following consultations with local authorities, the county will benefit from a share of the latest round of the Active Travel Fund (ATF). 

The investment is aimed at improving road safety, easing congestion and improving the health and wellbeing of people choosing 'active travel' - those who prefer walking or cycling.

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Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “We want to make sure everyone across the country can choose cheaper, greener and healthier travel, while we continue to support our high streets and local businesses.

"Safety and accessibility will be at the heart of improvements and the creation of walking and cycling routes.

"This will mean improved safety for children and parents walking to school and more inclusive street designs for those in wheelchairs and mobility scooters."

Chris Boardman, national active travel commissioner, added: “By giving millions of people the freedom of choice to walk, wheel or cycle for everyday trips, this funding will help us improve public health, tackle climate change and give hundreds of thousands of children the independence to travel safely under their own steam. 

“Now our focus is working with councils to get these schemes built swiftly. We’ll be working together to ensure the projects are well designed and effective so that they bring maximum benefits to communities and help improve lives nationwide.” 

Government funding has meant cycling across England has continued to thrive and is up 11 per cent on pre-pandemic levels, increasing by more than 20 per cent in the last 10 years.