Shipley MP pushes for Wharfedale transport funding

Anna Dixon MP for Shipley, has requested a meeting with a government minister to discuss securing significant transport investment for the local Wharfedale community.

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Anna Dixon called on Simon Lightwood, the Minister for Local Transport, to meet with her and the ‘Friends of Wharfedale Greenway’ to explore the possibility of utilising funding allocated to West Yorkshire for active travel to establish a travel corridor in Wharfedale.

The Wharfedale Greenway project is a proposed route for walking, cycling, and horse riding along the Wharfe Valley. If constructed, it would connect Pool-in-Wharfedale, Otley, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Ilkley, and Addingham to the Yorkshire Dales in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.

The 'Friends of Wharfedale Greenway' is a group of volunteers who have long advocated for the project's development. They are dedicated to raising awareness and garnering support for the creation of the greenway along the Wharfe Valley.

In February, it was announced that the new Labour Government had awarded the West Yorkshire Combined Authority over £17 million to fund projects across the region, such as new cycle lanes to help make active travel a more attractive option for short journeys.

Speaking in today’s Commons debate on Active Travel, Anna Dixon MP said: “Increasing active travel by 50% in England would result in 1.8 million fewer GP visits and 4 million fewer sick days.

“I therefore welcome the Government’s commitment, reiterated by the Minister, to build 300 miles of new cycle lanes and walkways.

“Will the Minister meet me and the Friends of Wharfedale Greenway to see how we can secure investment to open up this amazing active travel corridor in Wharfedale and boost the health of my constituents?”

In response, Simon Lightwood MP said: “Our investment in active travel will lead to fewer sick days and millions more journeys walked, wheeled and cycled every year.

“More than £17 million has been allocated to West Yorkshire for active travel. I would be happy to meet my hon. Friend.

“I will also ask Active Travel England to make contact with the Friends of Wharfedale Greenway about that specific scheme.”