Local Communities and Housing Minister Simon Clarke MP met with local Member of Parliament, Scott Mann for a tour of Wadebridge on Thursday. The Minister was very interested to see local projects including the Camel Trail.

Scott Mann was also able to brief the Minister on the reaction to the government’s business rate reduction on public toilets, a policy which has been welcomed by the local tourist economy.

Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government Simon Clarke MP said:

"Cycling has huge benefits for people's physical and mental health, helping people to get fit and healthy as well as cutting congestion and boosting air quality.

"I was really pleased to visit Wadebridge today and to have a chance to visit the Camel Trail, a great benefit to the local community and an example of the positive difference cycle paths can make.

“Initiatives like this boost tourism in the area and mean people can explore the natural beauty of Cornwall in a green and friendly way while keeping fit. It's a great example of exactly the kind of initiative we want to see across the country as we encourage more people to get on their bike and enjoy the benefits of active travel."

Scott Mann MP said:

“I’m very pleased the Minister was able to come and visit North Cornwall and see some of our local projects. Wadebridge is my hometown and I am very proud of the progress we have made on sustainability and cycling which have had a fantastic impact on our local tourist sector.

“Following unprecedented levels of walking and cycling across the UK during the pandemic, the government recently announced £2bn of additional investment in alternative ways to travel, such as walking and cycling.

“This will help encourage more people to choose alternatives to public transport when they need to travel, making healthier habits easier and helping make sure the road, bus and rail networks are ready to respond to future increases in demand. I am very pleased that Wadebridge and North Cornwall are leading the way.”