A greener transport link makes Newham pupils "wheelie" happy

Childten on their bikes on one of the speciially designed pathways

​​Children from Gainsborough Primary School in West Ham took to two wheels to celebrate the opening of Quietway 22 – one of the specially designed pathways developed across London.

The pathways developed across London are to increase walking and cycling.
 
Quietway 22 runs along the existing Greenway for 6.3km from Wick Lane to High Street South in East Ham, and in partnership with Transport for London, extra lighting, CCTV, and access ramps have been installed to make walking and cycling a safer and more enjoyable experience..    
 
The last stage of Quietway 22, between Marshgate Lane and Stratford High Street, is due to open next year.
 
Councillor Rachel Tripp, joined the pupils from Gainsborough Primary for a celebratory pedal, along with London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman from TfL.
 
Cllr Tripp, cabinet member for environment and highways said: “It was fabulous to get out and enjoy Quietway 22 with the Gainsborough pupils. Will Norman and I were incredibly impressed with how knowledgeable and passionate the children were about the importance of protecting the environment, cutting down emissions from vehicles, and the benefits of physical exercise to enhance health and happiness. 
 
“The Quietway project offers a real incentive to all of our residents to move away from polluting transport towards healthier and sustainable methods of getting about. On our afternoon out we saw people of all ages, and all levels of fitness, walking, running, cycling - and even scooting – and enjoying a beautiful afternoon.”     
 
Gainsborough Primary School head teacher, Deborah Strain said: “Myself, the staff, our children and their parents and carers, were delighted to be involved in the opening of this new cycling and walking route. 
 
“At Gainsborough we pride ourselves on being a healthy and active school, encouraging all our pupils take their physical health seriously, including taking regular exercise. Cycling is a great way for our pupils to boost their fitness, at the same time as reducing the pollution caused by the people using cars on the school run. 
 
“The new Quietway is a fantastic and safe alternate for parents, children and staff who currently drive to school, and will have great environmental benefits which all our children will inherit.”

Published: 18 Oct 2018