WALKING charity ‘Ramblers’ is searching for Britain’s Best Walking Neighbourhood and want nominations from the West Midlands, writes Louise Newton.
In its second year now, the annual competition celebrates places that put pedestrians first and lead the way in providing residents with more ‘walkable’ areas.
Ramblers promote walking to try to tackle obesity, social isolation, congestion and air pollution.
The competition considers suggestions from local authorities, community groups, developers, and individuals who feel walking is made easier in their neigbourhoods.
Last year’s finalists included a West Midlands based development in Worcestershire.
Vanessa Griffiths, Ramblers’ chief executive, said: “We are keen to hear about neighbourhoods that have improved or created new green routes, spaces, or features, because we know these make neighbourhoods more appealing for walking, whether it’s for leisure or as a means of getting from A to B.
“We also want to encourage others to think about the small changes they could make to improve the walkability of their neighbourhoods.”
Finalists will be chosen by an expert panel and a winner will be selected by public vote in the summer.
People wanting to nominate their neighbourhood can visit www.ramblers.org.uk/nominate before the March 3 deadline.