RESIDENTS will enjoy safer and more accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes thanks to more than £3.1million in government funding.

Wiltshire Council has been awarded £3,169,878 over four years to support the development of new and improved footpaths, cycle lanes and junctions.

It will also support the planning of new cycling and walking networks, scheme design and training.

Cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith said: “We’re pleased to receive this £3.1m, which will enable us to strengthen active travel infrastructure across Wiltshire.

“However, we have more work to do to, and therefore I am working hard to improve our Active Travel England (ATE) rating so we can secure more funding over the coming years and invest in more cycling and walking routes.

“While we are still considering the specifics that the current funding will be spent on, we anticipate a mix of delivering new routes and planning future improvements.

“Better walking and cycling options will not only make sustainable travel easier but also reduce congestion in our towns and city, improve public health, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance air quality.”

He added that the investment supports the Our Wiltshire Plan commitment to ensure roads and public spaces are accessible to all.