PRESS RELEASE:FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cyclists angered by funding cuts

Cyclists are angered by the Government's slashing of walking and cycling funding to pay for more state highways.

Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) spokes person Stephen McKernon says, "about a third of New Zealanders cycle on our roads and cycling is one of the ten most popular recreational activities nationwide. The 2006 Census shows 9% of people walk and cycle to work, and the Household Travel Survey 2008 shows 17% of trips are made by walking and cycling."

"Yet cycling and walking in combination have received less than 1% of Land Transport Programme funding, and even this has now been halved."

"The Government says the funding cut has been made to match the ways people currently travel. This is clearly incorrect and a cynical attack on alternative modes of travel at a time when they are desperately needed."

"Media attention for the Government's proposed national cycleway should not divert attention from the fact it is slashing funding for cycling to spend more on state highways."

"Driving our way out of the recession and beyond is just not a sensible solution. A more balanced approach to transport is needed."

"We call on the Government to meet its commitments to 'Getting There - on Foot, by Cycle', the national walking and cycling strategy."

"Cycling is popular, healthy, cheap, safe, responsible and eco-friendly. It is ideal for the huge volume of short trips people make, such as to work and shops. It grows suburban businesses by increasing local shopping and helps communities by strengthening local networks. It also attracts tourists and builds related business revenues. Demand for better cycling facilities is growing in New Zealand, as well as in many other countries, as a result of these benefits," says McKernon.