Cyclists pedal strong views to Holyrood

Transport Minister Keith Brown has backed calls to make Scotland a “cycle-friendly nation” ahead of today’s Pedal on Parliament.

The event was expected to see hundreds of cyclists ride to Holyrood to call for “proper” funding, more appropriate cycle routes and slower traffic speeds.

The group has an eight-point manifesto designed to help the Scottish Government meet its target of achieving ten per cent of journeys by bike by 2020.

Mr Brown said: “Pedal on Parliament has bold ambitions and this government shares that ambition to make Scotland a cycle-friendly nation.”

More than £20 million will be spent to support “active travel”, which includes cycling, over the next three financial years.

Mr Brown added: “We have agreed a 40 per cent target for on-road cycle training and have given our support to every child or young person having the opportunity to saddle up.”