NORTH Yorkshire is to receive £1 million from the government to create safer space for cycling and walking.

Thirsk and Malton Conservative MP Kevin Hollinrake said the money from the Active Travel Fund would go to North Yorkshire County Council to help to make roads more bike and pedestrian-friendly.

“I’m delighted that North Yorkshire will benefit from additional funding to make our local area more bike and pedestrian-friendly, while maintaining the access and space other road users still need,” said Mr Hollinrake.

“I have heard from dozens of constituents over the past few months who have taken advantage of the coronavirus restrictions

either to dig their bikes out of their sheds or to make a habit of regular walking to get about instead of relying on their cars or public transport.

“I hope this will continue because it’s good for health and well-being and, of course, the environment.”

Grant Shapps, Transport Secretary, added: “It has been great to see so many people build cycling and walking into their daily travel habits.

“To support them, we know it’s vital to have the right infrastructure in place so everyone, cyclists, pedestrians and motorists, can use our roads.

“This funding will help further realise that ambition, but councils must engage with communities to develop schemes that work for everyone and those that haven’t won’t be able to develop plans.”