Almost 3,000 back call to make it easier for cyclists to ride in the Welsh countryside

Almost 3,000 back call to make it easier for cyclists to ride in the Welsh countryside

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Following British Cycling and Welsh Cycling’s campaign to make Wales a world-leading destination for cycling, almost 3,000 people have pledged their support for proposals to make it easier for cyclists to ride in the countryside.

The governing bodies called for responsible cycling to be allowed on all paths and land with public access, as opposed to current rules which mean just over 20% of public paths in Wales are accessible by bike.

The change in rules would greatly increase off-road cycling opportunities, which is ideal for those who might be new to cycling and want to build their confidence on a bike away from traffic.

Martin Key, British Cycling’s campaigns manager, said: “The fact that almost 3,000 people have got behind our campaign shows that there’s a real appetite for greater cycling access in the Welsh countryside.

“We hope that the Welsh Government will now act upon our recommendations, which we believe will provide a significant boost to the Welsh economy and help make our communities cleaner, greener and healthier.”

The ‘Taking Forward Wales’ Sustainable Management of Natural Resources consultation closed on 30 September, and responses are currently being reviewed.

Details of the outcome will be published in due course, and we will work with Welsh Government during the next stage of the process so that the desire to allow responsible cycling in the countryside is enshrined in law.

British Cycling and Welsh Cycling’s response supported the calls of the Outdoor Access Coalition, which believes the benefits of improved access for all will increase the enjoyment of recreational activities, improve the health of a nation, strengthen rural economies and lead to sustainable management of the natural environment for future generations.

Over 8,000 people have also supported Cycling UK and Open MTB’s ‘Trails for Wales’ campaign, which called for improved access to the outdoors for responsible recreation and allowing people to cycle on footpaths.

Thank you to everybody who took the time to respond and support the campaign.

You can read the full response to the consultation here.

British Cycling Commute Membership