Most people who responded to a survey believe that more should jog, cycle or walk to work.

The government is now drawing up an ’action plan’ to promote the idea.

Work to promote walking and cycling for short trips will be led by the Department of Infrastructure.

According to a press statement from the government: ’The long-term vision is to create a culture and environment where alternatives to motorised transport are natural and realistic choices for people of all ages.’

A public consultation about what the government calls ’active travel’ was held during the summer.

It attracted 379 responses, with most people backing the proposals. 82% of respondents agreed with the long-term vision for ’active travel’ and 87% supported the proposed definition of ’active travel’.

Politicians want people to walk, jog or cycle for short journeys, such as commuting to work.

A government spokesman said: ’This will likely focus on creating safe and convenient walking and cycling networks, improving facilities, enhancing education for all road users, encouraging a shift in behaviour to support active travel and developing community partnerships.

’Particular emphasis will be placed on promoting more active forms of travel among schoolchildren and for people who work within 2.5 miles of Douglas town centre.’

The government says that such measures would be an ’effective way of improving people’s physical and mental health’. It would also help to cut traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said: ’There was a good response to the public consultation and support for many of the principles and ideas.

’People’s suggestions, comments and criticisms will help to shape our future plans. We believe active travel is a simple and low-cost way for most people to include physical activity in their daily routines.

’This could play a part in tackling obesity and supporting efforts to make our health and social care services more sustainable.’

He added: ’Many journeys we make are less than a couple of miles, so there is great potential for people to leave their cars at home and make walking and cycling everyday choices to get around.

’We recognise that active travel is not practical or possible for some people and that there are barriers to participation for others.

’However, countries such as Holland and Denmark have really embraced the concept of active travel and are reaping the rewards. We want to support local people to take simple but positive steps towards more active lives as part of our work to make the island a special place to live and work.’

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