£1.26m funding for cyclists and pedestrians

More than half the funding for a £1.26 million scheme to improve cyclists' access and public space in the city centre has been approved by the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership.

The Derby Connected Cycle City and Placemaking project aims to create new cycling routes and enhance cyclists' access around the city centre, as well as improving pedestrian spaces; with a view to making areas more attractive for commercial development to grow the city economy.

Funding for up to £750,000 has been agreed by D2N2 for the project which will initially focus on the area called 'The Spot'.

Derby City Council – which is behind the project – confirmed the works will also provide:

• 750 square metres of improved public space
• more than 20 cycle parking facilities
• a new performance and event space at the heart of the St Peter's Quarter.

David Ralph, Chief Executive of D2N2 said: “Making our city centres more attractive places to walk and cycle around does have a positive economic impact, and can help bring businesses back to commercial areas that may be struggling.”

Martin Rawson, Cabinet Member for Planning, Environment and Regeneration at Derby City Council said: “These works will not only attract and motivate more people to walk and cycle but will also improve the city's economy, as new jobs are protected and created from retail and commercial development and investment, and truly realise Derby's potential as a cycle city.”