Forest of Dean District Council has launched a six-week consultation to help plan the future of active travel in the area.

The consultation, which started this week, invites residents to share their views about the current active travel infrastructure in the Forest of Dean to help to identify areas for improvement, which will make it easier and safer to walk, wheel and cycle across the district.

Cllr Chris McFarling, cabinet member for climate emergency, said: "Active travel - whether that's walking, wheeling or cycling - plays a vital role in helping us connect communities, promote healthier lifestyles, provide a low-cost way to move around, and protect our natural environment.

"Studies show that getting out in, and reconnecting with, nature improves your wish to protect it - and wildlife needs protecting like never before.

"We know that people often choose the car for short trips because the alternatives can feel disconnected, unsafe or inconvenient. We want to offer residents real alternatives to driving for some of their journeys by creating a network of safer, more accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes across our district.

"Embracing and investing in active travel that works for all ages and abilities will not only help to reduce the number of vehicles on our roads, but also lower carbon emissions, paving the way for a more sustainable future for everyone across the Forest of Dean."

Views gathered during the consultation will be instrumental in helping the council work with other partner organisations to design and develop a high-quality active travel network, which will lead to safer streets, cleaner air and healthier communities across the Forest of Dean.

Drop-in sessions will be taking place, where residents can look at and discuss the plans with the council. These will be held on Saturday, May 17 (10am to 4pm) at Clearwell Memorial Hall as part of Newland Parish's Community Action Day, on Tuesday, May 20 (4pm to 8pm) at Newent Community Pavillion and on Wednesday, May 21 (4pm to 8pm) at The Rising Sun Community Pub, Woodcroft.

Forest of Dean residents can take part in the consultation on the Forest of Dean District Council website.