Go Smarter, Go Active with the launch of new walking and cycling maps and days out guides
Active travel campaign, Go Smarter, Go Active has launched brand new North East walking and cycling maps as well as action-packed days out itineraries to encourage more people to get out and about enjoying active travel this summer and beyond.
The new maps and itineraries have been designed to encourage more sustainable, active travel, reducing the reliance on travel by car.
The new North East maps bring together walking and cycling routes across Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland. Routes highlight traffic free trails/cycleways as well as cycle parking across the North East in an effort to make planning journeys on foot or by bike easier for all.
Alongside the maps, a new set of 16 illustrated itineraries for active days out have been produced, bringing to life some of the region’s most impressive landmarks, beaches, market towns and countryside in beautiful detail. Spanning the seven North East local authority areas, the guides delve into the rich history and folklore that make our cities and towns so special, like the rumoured meeting of the Admirals that took place at Tower House at Seaton Sluice, Northumberland, during the Napoleonic Wars and the fact that much of the village of Ebchester, Durham, was built on the site of roman fort ‘Vindomora’!
A number of itineraries are cross-boundary to encourage people to explore that little bit further in pursuit of new adventures this summer. Whether you fancy taking a Tyne Trek through Gateshead and Newcastle; cruising the beautiful coastline that joins South and North Tyneside; or discovering Sunderland’s rich maritime history by following the North Sea waves, there’s something for everyone, no matter your age or ability.
Cllr Martin Gannon, Chair of the North East Joint Transport Committee said “The Go Smarter, Go Active walking and cycling maps and days out itineraries are now live for the people of the North East to explore at their leisure. They couldn’t have launched at a better time during the peak of summer, when people are seeking ideas for enjoyable days out on their doorstep.
“In the short term these new tools will hopefully inspire more people to give walking and cycling a try, as a way of discovering some of the best hidden-gems the North East has to offer and reaping the health and well-being benefits that come with traveling actively.
“In the longer term, we hope that the maps will instigate a step change in those already curious about making greener, more sustainable travel choices for those day-to day journey instead of taking the car. This change in mindset could play a huge part in the reduction of carbon emissions – a key objective of the North East Transport Plan.”
Days out guides vary in distance, with many suitable for wheeled pedestrians, those with limited mobility and people bringing pushchairs. Just look out for the orange dotted line on the guides to spot these routes.
The new tools are part of the Go Smarter, Go Active campaign which launched this summer. As part of the campaign, a major seven-week long roadshow is also running throughout the school holidays, with free bookable and drop-in cycling sessions still available.
The Go Smarter, Go Active maps and itineraries have been created and delivered on behalf of the North East Joint Transport Committee by Transport North East, working in partnership with the seven North East Local Authorities. Funding for the campaign has been provided by the government’s Active Travel Fund.
Download the #GoSmarterGoActive maps and itineraries from the Go Smarter, Go Active website now and get exploring!
#GoSmarterGoActive #LetsGetCycling #LetsGetWalking