RESIDENTS of Colchester are set to get on their bikes after it beat off competition from across England to become a “Cycling Town”.

James Hore

RESIDENTS of Colchester are set to get on their bikes after it beat off competition from across England to become a “Cycling Town”.

The town will become one of 10 “beacon towns” which will develop cycling, getting improved facilities and encouraging a more cycle friendly culture.

Among the changes promised are better crossing facilities to enable cyclists to overcome major obstacles such as busy roads, rivers and railway lines.

Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly announced today that the government will invest £2.1 million in making Colchester a cycling town which Essex County Council will match, bringing the total invested in cycling over the next three years to £4.2 million

Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick visited Colchester North Station this morning to make the announcement.

He said it was a great day for Colchester.

Norman Hume, the county councillor in charge of highways and transportation, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that Colchester has been chosen as a cycling town.

“We have the won backing of the government and Cycling England for helping us to make cycling in Colchester the natural choice of travel for many more residents.

“We will take a lead in promoting cycling as a way of providing sustainable travel and healthier lifestyles.

“I would like to thank all of our local partners for the support and encouragement they gave to our submission.”

Colchester Borough Council's deputy leader Martin Hunt, said: “Colchester's newly awarded Cycling Town status is a tremendous achievement and will allow the town to take a national lead in promoting cycling to residents and visitors.

“We want to improve people's health, encourage residents and visitors to travel sustainably and safely for both work and leisure, manage congestion and to reduce the Borough's carbon footprint.”