Scots fund safer Places for People during Covid

The Scottish Government has announced it will fully fund a new infrastructure programme for pop-up walking and cycling routes or temporary improvements to existing routes.

The temporary infrastructure programme – Spaces for People – offers funding and support to make it safer for people who choose to walk, cycle or wheel for essential trips and exercise during COVID-19.

Funded by the Scottish Government and managed by Sustrans Scotland, the programme aims to enable statutory bodies to protect public health, support physical distancing and prevent a second wave of the outbreak.

The fund is open to statutory bodies and Sustrans anticipates the majority of applicants will be from planning and roads authorities. It will provide funding and, if needed, additional support services.

This will be supported by a package of guidance and support to local authorities from Transport Scotland and Sustrans Scotland for improvements such as widened pavements and cycle lanes.

Sustrans Scotland Deputy CEO John Lauder said: "It’s clear that people across Scotland want to do the right thing during Coronavirus. They want to look after their physical and mental health. They also want to make sure that they are keeping to physical distancing guidelines while still being safe on our streets.

"With our local authority partners we have helped turn around this idea in less than two weeks and it’s great to work with a government that listens and engages so actively. We look forward to being able to support partners to help make essential travel and exercise safer during Coronavirus.”