A new path to improve safety for cyclists is being created in north Liverpool – and has won the approval of an Olympic cycling legend.
The footpath, on Leeds Street, between Vauxhall Road and Byrom Street, will be upgraded to a segregated cycle and pedestrian path.
It will link the Byrom Street campus of John Moores University and the city’s cycle network along Vauxhall Road.
A link with the Connect2 cycling and walking route Everton Park to the Mersey will also be made with a north-south route between Wellington Street and Dale Street. The project will be wholly funded by the Department for Transport through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund.
Its introduction has been praised by Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman. He said: “I welcome any move which encourages people to us their bikes or take up cycling, The introduction of cycle lanes such as the one at Leeds Street, which increase safety and particularly encourage children to cycle, is a very positive move and should be applauded.”
Councillor Tim Moore, cabinet member for transport and climate change, said; “This scheme will make it a safer route for both experienced cyclists and those who are less used to travelling on busy roads. It will also encourage people to take up cycling.
“This is one of a number of cycling routes we will be creating throughout the city. We want more people to take up cycling and paths such as this will encourage them to get on their bikes.
“We are committed to driving up cycling levels and promoting sustainable transport across the city.
“Improvements to the cycling infrastructure such as this support the work being done by such project as the Choose Freedom hub which supports residents of Everton and Kirkdale to access employment by bike, public transport or walking.”