Local AM calls for Wales to get on its bike

9.42.22am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 10th Jan 2007

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, wants to make it easier for people to make healthy and green transport choices.

The local AM is calling for the establishment of cycling demonstration towns across Wales, to encourage a more cyclist-friendly ethos.

Ms Williams said: "Cycling has proven health benefits and also cuts carbon emissions - but many people wish government would make it easier. The Welsh Liberal Democrats would establish a pilot cycling demonstration town and invite bids from around Wales to host it.

"This town would receive increased funding to allow it to develop a comprehensive cycle network, and improve signage and parking for cyclists, as well as improve cycle training and increase the promotion of cycling as a transport mode. We would work to establish a fund to roll-out this scheme, which could be accessed by local authorities, town and community councils, to take the appropriate action to promote cycle use in their area. We want to see councils including proposals in their transport and development policies for increased cycle infrastructure and we would do all we could to facilitate this.

"Cars inevitably play a large role in rural areas, but we can do our bit and cut down on our car use. Improved public transport is key to this, but it is important to also think about those journeys that we could make on foot or by bike. I am confident that by making it safer and easier for people to choose to walk and cycle, we can encourage more people to get on their bikes and create a fitter, healthier and cleaner Wales."