Cycling and walking plans rated as funds released
NECACouncil authorities have received mixed ratings for their track record on cycling, wheeling and walking schemes, as funding was announced for more projects.
The North East Combined Authority (NECA) was found to have displayed "strong leadership" and has been awarded almost £16.2m for its seven councils to spend.
However, Active Travel England said Tees Valley Combined Authority's (TVCA) rating had fallen. It would get £4.1m for its five councils and needed "extra guidance" to become more "ambitious".
TVCA said it would work closely with partners on its plans, while NECA confirmed it would build 62 miles (100km) of "high-quality" cycle and walking routes.
The awards are part of a £626m national package for schemes which was initially announced as part of the government's Spending Review in June.
Active Travel England said it hoped the money would be used to create 500 miles (804km) of new and upgraded footpaths and cycle track across the country.
Commissioner Chris Boardman said he wanted the funding to be used to "build life" back into streets.
No 'coherent' scheme
NECA retained its two out of four rating and was judged to have "clear plans" for its greener routes.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said she was "delivering" on her promise to build better and safer routes.
TVCA was rated one out of four and found to have "basic plans" without a "coherent" scheme for its networks.
The authority said no decision had yet been made on how it would spend its award.
A spokesperson said it had a general "£1bn plan of transport projects" covering all modes of transport.
"We'll continue to work closely with partners to make this vision a reality," the spokesperson said.
