£1.3m Nottingham active travel scheme set for go-ahead

A council plan to improve pedestrian and cycle access along a busy Nottingham road has been recommended for approval ahead of a meeting this week.

The active travel scheme earmarked for Gregory Boulevard will improve walking and cycling networks between the A60 Mansfield Road and Noel Street, according to Nottingham City Council, who will discuss whether to approve receipt of around £1.8m of funding from East Midlands Combined Authority for the project this week.

Just over £1.3m will be used to deliver the improvements, with a further £450,000 earmarked for surveys and modelling, and the continuation of a “cycling and walking behaviour change programme”.

The local authority says the scheme will improve access to leisure facilities at the Forest Sport Zone, following approval of a separate £2.6m project to transform pitches and buildings at the venue earlier this year.

“This isn’t just about improving roads and paths, it’s about giving people real choices for how they get around, helping families, students, and workers travel more easily, and encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles,” said mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward.

“These improvements will connect communities, schools, parks, and leisure facilities, making everyday journeys simpler and more enjoyable. They’ll also help create cleaner, greener streets and more vibrant neighbourhoods where people want to spend time.”

A report set to go before Nottingham City Council’s executive board on Tuesday (October 21) says the funding will also allow road resurfacing to take place at the same time as the new cycling and pedestrian improvements – which the authority says will “minimise disruption, and benefit all road users”.

A public consultation on the proposals will take place prior to the start of construction work, the authority says.

Councillor Linda Woodings, member for transport at Nottingham City Council, added: “By improving safety and accessibility along Gregory Boulevard, we plan to make it easier for people to choose walking, wheeling, and cycling for their everyday journeys, connecting communities, schools, parks, and leisure facilities, helping to create a healthier, greener city.”