Telford & Wrekin Council has been awarded almost £1.9 million to create new off-road cycle and walking routes.

The improvement scheme, which is government funded through Active Travel England, will also see the creation of:

• improved highways crossing points

• enhanced wayfinding

• maintenance of the existing walking and cycling route from central Oakengates to Telford town centre to improve user experience and safety.

The routes between Oakengates and Telford town centre were identified by the council as important to expanding local ‘active travel’ provision as they link some of the borough’s key residential, commercial, leisure and green space sites, enabling local people to travel sustainably for work, education and recreation.

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The council said work will now get underway to secure contractors, with the completed scheme due to be delivered by March 2025.

Cllr Lee Carter (Lab), cabinet member for place (the economy and neighbourhood services), said: "Nationally, £200m was awarded by Active Travel England to 67 authorities, with Telford & Wrekin and Warwickshire being the only councils in the West Midlands awarded more than £1m.

"This is phenomenal and demonstrates our commitment to pursuing the climate action agenda while also connecting communities and boosting the local economy."