39 miles of new and improved cycling trails have opened in Bracknell Forest to encourage people to explore the area.

The £132,000 project, which links Bracknell parks and greenspaces together, is also aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Bracknell Forest Council said the scheme had added to the areas traffic-free cycle routes.

The money has been provided by the Department for Transport’s Capability Fund.

Routes range from 10 to 20 kilometres in length, and there are five in total to try. 

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Cllr Chris Turrell, Executive Member for Planning and Transport said:

“The launch of these routes is one of the many steps Bracknell Forest Council is taking to boost more active ways to travel around the borough.

“We hope these routes will be an exciting opportunity for people to introduce themselves to the great cycling and walking network we already have.

“People can try our routes, then make up their own versions, or plot a route to the shops, to work, or to school. As well as the obvious health and wellbeing benefits of being more active, walking and cycling for more regular trips will help reduce your carbon footprint too.”

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Maps of the routes can be downloaded online and there are also colour-coded stickers on lampposts along the way to keep you on track.

The grant has also helped fund other projects.

These include creating a new ‘My Journey’ web portal to host all sustainable travel information in one place.

Developing an interactive cycle-map to help residents explore the extensive cycle network in the borough

Providing family cycle training, led cycle rides and guided walks to help people explore the existing cycle and walking network.

Sustaining funding to the popular Eco-Rewards scheme in the borough

a package of cycle promotion events offered to local businesses and their employees

an independent review of the borough’s walking and cycling infrastructure with recommendations for improvements, following a recent public engagement exercise