MORE than £1 million could be spent on improving transport schemes, the Isle of Wight Council has announced today (Monday).
The list of schemes for the next financial year includes improvements to cycleways, better signs and a £100,000 programme to improve footpaths and bridleways.
The list of planned work, totalling £1.3m, is outlined in a delegated decision report published today (Monday) into the Isle of Wight Council’s planned integrated transport and local sustainable transport fund capital programme.
Some of the work will be carried by PFI company Island Roads, if its relates to the existing network. This work will be carried out at previously agreed and market-tested rates.
Island Roads may also be considered for work not relating to the existing network.
The council said the amount of money available for work of this kind had been reduced by government however, it was able to increase spending having secured a near £4 million government grant for green transport schemes — some of which were compatible with the programme.
"At a time when government grant is being reduced in this area, it is very pleasing that through our successful application for substantial Local Sustainable Transport Grant funding we are able to actually increase our spending," said Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for transport Cllr Edward Giles.
"A truly accessible and integrated transport network is clearly a benefit to residents but it also helps the Island develop its already considerable appeal as a green travel destination."
The delegated decision report and a list of schemes can be viewed here.