A major Island scheme to create pedestrian routes through the heart of Ryde is being backed by Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely.
Bob is urging Government to support an Isle of Wight Council bid for money that will transform Ryde High Street by making it safer and more pedestrian friendly. The project would also create new amenity areas, increase accessibility and emphasise the historic elements of Ryde town centre.
The council is seeking £700,000 from the Government’s Active Travel Fund and Bob has written to Rupert Furness, Deputy Director, Active Travel, at the Department for Transport in full support of the bid.
Bob said: “The Island is a trailblazer in terms of walking and cycling routes as well as being one of the UK’s leading destinations for active travel tourism. As a UNESCO Biosphere, we are internationally recognised for our approach to sustainable development.
“That is why I have encouraged the council to apply for this available Government funding. The bid they have developed will make travel through the town an even more pleasant experience for residents and visitors.
“Linking with the investment in the new Interchange on the seafront, it will continue the regeneration of Ryde, promoting healthy, greener travel through the whole town.”
The scheme forms part of the Ryde High Street Heritage Action Zone programme being delivered by a partnership of Ryde Town Council, Isle of Wight Council and Historic England. A successful bid would fund the completion of the scheme, maximising the overall impact.
The scheme aims to improve the entrance to the High Street from the south by rationalising and upgrading street furniture; repaving; enhanced planting; new traffic calming measures to slow permitted vehicles and enhanced cycle parking.
