Green travel takes off

Future development of green forms of travel is expected after a special conference at Three Rivers District Council. Delegates from British Waterways, Hertfordshire Highways, Hertfordshire Rural Transport Partnership, Watford Borough Council and other groups discussed ways of improving accessibility to the countryside.

Issues covered included working with rail operators, promoting good access for wheelchair users as well as further developing access for cyclists, horse riders and boaters.

Three Rivers planning expert, Steve Farrell, said:

"Sustainable access to the countryside means reducing fuel consumption and avoiding unnecessary road use. The green option is often the healthy option, too, through walking and cycling in particular."

Three Rivers consists of around two thirds green belt land, an area the size of around 10,000 football pitches. There are over 250 public footpaths in the district.