National cycleway good economic sense

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National cycleway good economic sense, say cyclists

A $50 million national cycleway the length of the country, under consideration at today's Jobs Summit in Auckland, makes great economic sense, according to the Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN).

"Major cycling infrastructure projects overseas have brought significant long-term benefits in terms of tourism. Here in New Zealand the success of the Otago Central Rail Trail has shown how a traffic-free route for cycling and walking can have big benefits for the local economy, creating jobs and new business opportunities," says Glen Koorey, CAN's Co-Chairperson.

CAN, New Zealand's national organisation for transport, recreational and touring cyclists, is already involved in a new project to kick-start a national cycling and walking network. Planning has already started on this project, financially supported by the Hikurangi Foundation, and involving the national pedestrian advocacy organisation Living Streets Aotearoa.

It is also one of the initiatives included in the implementation plan for the national walking and cycling strategy, Getting There - on foot, by cycle.

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