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Walking routes in Cheshire

Walking accounts for 25% of all journeys, and 80% of journeys less than 2 km. Yet even over such short distances, journeys are increasingly being made by car. This not only leads to more traffic congestion on Cheshire's roads, it may also lead to people exercising less as they substitute a journey by foot for one by car.

Walking for Health

Experts recommend being active for 30 minutes a day, five times a week... So, did you know that walking one mile in 20 minutes uses as much energy as running a mile in 10 minutes, swimming for 10 minutes, playing football for 12 minutes or cycling for 16 minutes... And walking is a LOT easier than any of those! 

Put yourself in their shoes... Walking down the street is not a problem for most of us but for people with a visual impairment it can be more like an obstacle course. Nine out of ten times... you have to say things more than once is the title of a humorous, award winning art exhibition created by visually impaired members of the IRIS Vision Resource Centre in Crewe. We all have a responsibility to ensure that pavements are kept clean and clear of obstructions, so, are you a caring sole or a complete heel?

Feet First - A Walking Strategy for Cheshire outlines how the Council intends to promote and encourage walking in Cheshire by making it safe, convenient and pleasant for everyone to walk on short journeys.

The Local Transport Plan recognises that pedestrian routes need to be safe, convenient and of high quality. Links with local shops, services, recreation facilities and the workplace need to be fully accessible on foot. Safe pedestrian networks are fundamental to our Safer Routes to School programme. Improved standards for walking as a leisure activity are also important.

Highlighting the health benefits of walking and cycling is part of the Cheshire Health Improvement Programme and the TravelWise Campaign. Closer partnership working with colleagues in the Health Sector will be needed.

The Council will:

• Implement 'Feet First - A Walking Strategy for Cheshire' through its Walking Officer.
• Ensure that design guides have better standards for pedestrians and improve pedestrian safety.
• Promote the development of footpath networks using canals and other "green corridors".
• Achieve Countryside Agency Standards for signing and provision of footpaths and other rights of way.
• Promote the advantages of walking as part of our TravelWise Campaign.

Pedestrian Access and Mobility Code of Practice

Walking Strategy Consultation Summary

Anna Geroni (01244 973617)