“This is a cycling nation,” says Prime Minister opening a sign-posted cycle route

Prime Minister David Cameron officially opened the new Cotswold Line Cycling Route on Friday, the newest part of Sustrans’ National Cycle Network.

The new route will encourage tourism, commuting and leisure trips in the area, says Sustrans.

The Cotswold Line – National Cycle Network route 442 – passes through the North Cotswolds, connecting the historic market towns and villages on the Cotswold Line railway between Oxford and Worcester, using quiet roads and off road cycle routes.

The Prime Minister said: “This is a cycling nation and in the year we are hosting the Tour de France I’m delighted to be here opening this new cycle route between Hanborough and Honeybourne.

He added: “The National Cycle Network is a national treasure.”

Fair-weather Cameron also told residents at the launch that he was looking forward to using the route: “I’m going to be riding this route myself as soon as the weather brightens up.”

Sustrans’ Chief Executive, Malcolm Shepherd, said: “It was fantastic to welcome the Prime Minister to celebrate the opening of the Cotswold Line, which is set to substantially boost tourism in the area and make it easier for locals to make every day journeys on foot and by bike.

“Increased walking and cycling levels are the key to the future health and prosperity of the UK, so it is wonderful to see support for initiatives like this at the highest level of government.”

The Cotswold Line Cycling Route is the work of the Charlbury Cycling Group who designed the route supported by Sustrans, Cotswolds Conservation Board, First Great Western and the Charlbury Beer Festival.