Walking to work just first step to greener Leeds (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Walking to work just first step to greener Leeds

May 1, 2009 12:00 AM

Leeds Liberal Democrat leader Richard Brett (Liberal Democrat, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) today outlined his ten year vision to make Leeds a trailblazer for greener travel.

Monday 27th April saw Cllr Brett walking the four mile journey from his home to the Civic Hall as part of national walking to work week. But for the inner city councillor, this is only the first step on the greener path Leeds needs to take in its transport plans.

The Lib Dem leader believes that major improvements to the city's infrastructure are needed if carbon free forms of transport are to be more widely adopted. Chief amongst his priorities is a proposal for walking and cycling routes linking every main arterial route in the city.

Setting out his proposals, Cllr Brett said:

"We need to encourage more people to walk to and from work. Not only are the personal benefits to our health and well-being great but it produces less CO2 and will help to make our city a much cleaner and greener place.

"I strongly believe we need a dedicated 2km walking and cycling route between each main road in the city. This must be paved, well lit with signs and proper crossings to make them safe. These should be made as attractive as possible.

"I think we need to commit to a 10 year programme of devising, planning and delivering these walking routes so that communities surrounding the city centre do not feel cut off. The type of programme I have in mind would benefit the communities of Armley, Hyde Park, Chapel Town, Little London, Harehills, Burmantofts, Lincoln Green, Richmond Hill and Holbeck."