Peter Gibson MP for Darlington has welcomed the news that the town has been awarded £1.3 million from the Active Travel England Fund.
The fund is designed to help create and extend high-quality walking and cycling routes, improve the quality of local public engagement for new walking and cycling schemes, free e-cycle loans, and expanding trials of side road zebra crossings.
The £1.3 million will be used around Darlington Station and Victoria Road, making it easier for passengers to access the station by walking or cycling, and will aim to create pleasant places for travellers and visitors to enjoy.
Speaking about the announcement, Peter said “This new funding is yet more great news for Darlington, it bridges the gap between the £23.3 million Towns Fund and the £139 million Bank Top Station upgrade.
“The £1.3m will further support our plans to transform the Bank Top and Victoria Road areas, and will support passengers and visitors alike, helping to create vibrant space with improved transport choices”.
Roads Minister, Guy Opperman, said: “We’re committed to ensuring people can travel in the way that works best for them, which is why we’re investing over £100 million for over 100km of new walking and cycling routes, improved access to our national parks, and e-cycle loan schemes.
"It was great to be at Darlington Station with Peter and Ben Houchen, where it is clear this funding is going to make a huge difference, and will complement the great work that is already well underway.
“This funding is not just an investment in new infrastructure, but in communities that will benefit from the social mobility and health benefits that improved and new walking and cycling routes will bring.”
