MORE cycle lanes are part of £60 million plans announced by the Scottish Transport Secretary to improve active travel infrastructure in four areas.

The five projects are being funded through walking and cycling charity Sustran and Scotland’s flagship active travel programme, Places For Everyone, funded by Transport Scotland.

Two of the projects, worth a total of £22.85 million, are taking place in Glasgow, with a £20.32m scheme in Edinburgh, £6.92m project in Arbroath and £6.4m project in Perth.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson announced the five-year investment in Perth at the launch of a new National Transport Strategy which has been opened for public consultation.

The draft 20-year strategy details how the transport system will deliver on a variety of issues, including climate action, equality, the economy, and health and wellbeing.

It also aims to increase accountability by proposing a citizens’ panels and a new delivery board.

Matheson said: “The National Transport Strategy sets a clear direction for a future where we have a sustainable, inclusive and accessible transport system that helps deliver a healthier, fairer and more prosperous Scotland.

“We know cycling, walking, use of public transport and shared transport options all need to be more affordable, accessible and attractive if we are to make this vision a reality.

“The strategy is being launched alongside the allocation of almost £60m for five new active travel projects, underlining the added benefits that sustainable transport can bring.

“I would encourage everyone with an interest to consider the new strategy and to join the conversation.

“The consultation is available online and we will also be coming out to communities across rural, island and urban locations during the next 12 weeks where it would be great to hear as many views as possible.”

Sustrans Scotland said the projects will help “connect communities and create liveable towns and cities”.