An initiative to increase the number of people walking or cycling to work is being considered by the government.

The government’s Active Travel Scheme aims to see less people using their motor vehicles and will be looking at how infrastructure could be improved to encourage this.

The Examiner went to Strand Street in Douglas to get the views of the people.

’I think it would be great to have more cycling paths,’ said Sarah Bassett, 44, from Kirk Michael.

’It would make it easier for cyclists and help them and drivers get to work more safely.

’I also think it would ease the tension that’s sometimes created between both road users.

’I support cyclists even though I’m not one myself. I’m a runner and know how vulnerable running on the open roads can make you feel.’

Father and daughter Gary and Jenna Holdaway, aged 60 and 34, think the scheme would be beneficial but mainly for those living close to their workplace.

Jenna from Castletown said: ’I rely on my car and it would be quite daunting to cycle on the main road from Castletown to Douglas.’

Gary, who lives in Santon, added: ’There are no cycle lanes to use on that main road. They would need cycle lanes all round the island for more people to take part.

’I think the government’s cycle-to-work scheme is a great idea and I hope more businesses get involved with it,’ he added.

Ramsey resident Gill Bellwood, 71, said: ’There are not a lot of pedestrianised areas in Ramsey.

’The government should have free car parks just outside of Douglas for people to park there and cycle or walk into town,’ she suggested.

Danny Hamill, 21, from Douglas, said: ’I think it’s a great idea and I would definitely be interested in it.

’I tend to drive to work but I’ve been saying for a while that I should be cycling or walking more often.

’It’s a few miles to work for me so I may as well with the weather being this nice.

’Cycling into town is not a faff, but if there were more cycle lanes it would be easier.

’It would be interesting to see what they do [about the lack of cycle paths].

’Where do you put cycle lanes, practically speaking, and what could they do to make a significant effect?’

Sophie Lund, aged 24, from Douglas said: ’They would need to get rid of the pot holes for it to work.

’Our work has an electric bike, although I don’t use it because you have to wear a hi-vis and I’m not keen on that.

’Since the bike is electric it mean less effort, which also means you don’t have to go to work sweaty.

’I think people our age would definitely be interested in the scheme because it’s an environmental issue.’

Her friend Freya Corrigan, 21, from Castletown, added: ’Especially with fitness becoming such a big deal.’

When asked if she would personally be interested in the scheme, she replied: ’I wouldn’t want to cycle or walk from Castletown.

’The cycle lanes just stop which make you think "right, what do we do now? Do I go on the pavement?".

’Cycle lanes are not only good for cyclists but for drivers.’