Cyclists in Worcester can now plan their journeys more easily thanks to a new map which shows where they can park their bikes.

This map is part of Worcester City Council’s Active Travel action plan.

It's an initiative designed to encourage residents to opt for forms of active travel such as walking or cycling.

Worcester City Council is aiming to build upon their existing Environmental Sustainability Strategy through the Active Travel plan by proposing the creation of a bike hire scheme and collaborating with local schools to motivate more students to walk and cycle.

The plan is purposed to aid national objectives, including the goal of having 50 per cent of all travels in towns and cities performed actively by 2030.

Among other local workplaces, Worcester City Council has endorsed a scheme known as SHIFT that empowers staff members to commute via active methods, while simultaneously generating donations for charity based on the distance covered.

So far, 19 council employees and councillors have joined, covering more than 5,680 km and raising £142 for the mayor’s charity appeal.

Worcester News: Bike Worcester has launched their scheme with the Crowngate.

Councillor Zoe Cookson, vice chair of Worcester City Council’s environment committee, said: "We’re doing all we can to encourage people to walk and cycle more, or take up another form of active travel and we are pleased to be part of the SHIFT scheme and to be able to provide cyclists with a map at www.worcester.gov.uk showing where they can safely park their bikes whilst out and about.

"There are so many benefits to travelling actively, it has been shown to result in a healthier, happier workforce, to increased productivity and reduced rates of absenteeism.

"It also reduces carbon emissions."

For those interested in the SHIFT scheme, more details can be obtained by emailing info@goshift.co.uk.

The cycle parking map is accessible at www.worcester.gov.uk/climate-emergency/travelling-by-bike-walking-and-wheeling.