§ Mr. Simon ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) how much money has been spent on the development and production of a draft Walking Strategy; and when the final strategy will be published; [132357]
195W(2) what initiatives his Department has implemented to reverse the decline in people choosing to walk their journeys as a means of travelling: [132358]
(3) what plans the Government has made to establish a National Walking Board to implement the findings of the draft walking strategy; [132359]
(4) what plans the Government has made to establish a walking website as a resource for promoting walking as an alternative way of travelling short journeys. [132360]
§ Dr. HowellsMy Department issued a discussion document to inform our strategy on walking on 30 June. "On the move: by foot" sought views on how we might improve conditions for pedestrians and increase levels of walking. The consultation period closed on 26 September. We shall consider carefully all responses received to determine the need for future resources, institutions and additional specific guidance. It is not possible to quantify accurately the costs to Government and to list the many organisations and individuals who have contributed to the development of our strategy on walking to date. We aim to publish a follow-up document before the end of this year.
My Department has implemented a range of initiatives which support sustainable travel options, including walking journeys. These focus on school and workplace travel and traffic management measures.
My Department has pledged, part-funding to an alliance of Living Streets, London Walking Forum and the Ramblers Association for the development of an interactive website for practitioners and the public. It will bring together news on publications, conferences, training and good practice, as well as providing a forum for advice and exchange of views.
The Government's 10 Year Transport Plan and Liveability agenda fully recognise the benefits to the environment of more journeys on foot. The recently-established cross-Whitehall Activity Co-ordination Team is also considering how best to promote the health benefits of routine physical activity such as walking.