RESIDENTS and tourists can look forward to clearer roads, a healthier lifestyle and improved productivity as a new park and cycle scheme gets set to launch in Kendal.
The town's Business Improvement District (BID) is working with North Country Leisure, the owners of the Kendal Leisure Centre, to pave the way for a cycling revolution.
The park and cycle scheme, which will see motorists leave their cars at the leisure centre on Burton Road before picking up a bicycle, is not only aimed at the tourist market but locals as well.
"It is about giving people an alternative," said Kendal BID manager Sarah Williams. "If you've got more people going into work on a bike than driving then more people are likely to want to come into town because there will be less traffic and more car parking.
"It is a proven fact if people cycle to work they will be more productive because you feel fresher and fitter."
Brian Harrison, local businessman and Kendal BID director said: “We are in the process of consulting with local stakeholders including businesses in Kendal to determine additional locations for secure cycle rack provision. We are hoping we can not only provide the racks but we can also use them as areas for heritage signage and possible business signage."
The park and cycle, which it is hoped will be completed in a year, will ensure everyone has the opportunity to use Kendal’s cycle path routes as provision will also be made for people with disabilities and family use.
Derek Jones, from North Country Leisure, added: "We don't see ourselves as just running facilities indoors but also encouraging people to use the outdoor gym."
The news comes in the wake of what is believed to be a £500,000 package from Highways England to make the A590 safer for motorists, residents and cyclists.
Their plan is in response to the government's Road Investment Strategy, a long-term approach to improving England's major roads.
The report says work will done in the following areas:
• Brettargh Holt to Levens
• East of Newby Bridge Services
• Newby Bridge to Ayside
• West of Barrowbanks
• Gilpin Bridge Cycleway
• Lindale Hill to Low Newton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel