Businesses, community groups and other organisations in Greater Manchester can now apply for active travel grants of up to £15,000.

A new £535,000 programme, funded through the Department for Transport and Active Travel England Capability and Ambition Fund, has been launched to support Greater Manchester’s active travel mission.

The funding’s aim is to get more people walking, cycling and wheeling, reduce lorry and van travel in urban areas and help support Greater Manchester’s ambitions to improve air quality.

Community access grants are now available

Small independent businesses, voluntary organisations and community groups could be eligible for grants, while GP practices, NHS trusts, schools, colleges and universities can also apply.

Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner, said: “The purpose of the community access grants is to enable local groups, businesses and organisations to take their first steps in a journey to fewer vehicle journeys as part of their work and make cycling, walking and wheeling more accessible to people in their community.

“The grants provide an opportunity to improve the active travel provision of the business, group or organisation and maximise the benefits of sustainable transport options. With many businesses and local groups looking for ways to make savings in their running costs, having access to an e-cargo bike could help to minimise transport overheads.

“Previous successful applicants have included a co-operative bike workshop and a community interest company teaching circus skills. Both used their grants to purchase eCargo bikes to transport their work equipment, enabling them to minimise or even eliminate their trips in motor vehicles.

“If you think your business, organisation or group meets the criteria, then I’d encourage you to apply.”

(Picture – TfGM)