The Minister for Sustainable Transport, Nick McKim, today reaffirmed the Government's continuing commitment to developing cycling infrastructure in Tasmania.

Addressing a Bike Futures Seminar in Launceston, Mr McKim, said the Government recognised that improving safety and infrastructure were important in encouraging people to choose to walk and cycle to undertake their everyday journeys.

"We are focusing on identifying and developing transport-oriented, principal urban cycling networks in each of our major population centres," Mr McKim said.

"These networks are all about encouraging people to use their bikes for short transport journeys, rather than always taking the car."

As a first step toward realising the network, Mr McKim announced funding of $10,000 for three initial projects to:

• Develop on-road cycle lanes on Westbury Road between the Bass Highway and Mt Leslie Road.

• Conduct public consultation around the construction of cycle lanes on Clarence Street in Bellerive; and

• Undertake initial planning and design work for an off-road shared path from Glenorchy to Tolosa Park.

Mr McKim said that the Government also supported the development of local cycling connections through the Cycling for Active Transport - Local Infrastructure Development Fund.

"This year we've been able to support the development of some useful local cycling paths and facilities, and we've also been able to fund some programs such as the pilot Cycling 4All Program which aims to support people with a disability to cycle for transport.

"In last month's State Budget we allocated $100,000 to help further develop cycle infrastructure in North-West Tasmania.

"A number of bodies, including local government, have undertaken considerable work to identify and plan a pathway across much of the North-West.

"In total, the project could encompass more than 150 kilometres of cycleway, and provide significant transport, health, tourism and recreational benefits for communities in the region.

"It is essential that we do all we can to encourage greater use of sustainable transport and develop infrastructure to help set Tasmania up for a low emission future."