A new £1m fund to encourage people from deprived communities to walk and cycle is now available for social landlords in Scotland.
The new Social Housing Fund for Improved Walking and Cycling Facilities is available to housing associations and tenement residential properties across Scotland to support active travel.
Transport Scotland said £950,000 from the Scottish Government will prioritise areas of high deprivation in order to encourage walking and cycling for more sustainable everyday journeys.
The Scottish Government’s cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said it had supported similar funds in the past but this is the first time a range of partners have come together to work directly with housing associations.
He said: ‘This has been designed as a high-impact fund, which will provide greater sustainable transport options and offer healthier lifestyle choices within Scottish communities – with a particular focus on improvements in our most deprived areas.’
The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) is working in partnership with Cycling Scotland, Living Streets Scotland and Sustrans Scotland.
Social landords can apply for grants of up to £25,000 for a range of infrastructure proposals including cycle parking shelters, street furniture such as seating, litter bins, bollards and planters as well as improvements to access points and lighting.
Sarah Boyack, head of public affairs at the SFHA, said: ‘Our partnership with Cycling Scotland will enable 40-50 projects to be supported which will see this investment benefit people right across the country.'
Kath Brough, head of behaviour change at Cycling Scotland, said: ‘This new fund will improve facilities ranging from secure cycle parking to seating and will enable residents, tenants and housing staff to enjoy their outside space and get active.’
See the Cycling Scotland website for details of the fund.
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