Walking and cycling paths on the National Cycle Network will now be available on the official Ordnance Survey map.
According to the National Cycle Network charity Sustrans and Ordnance Survey (OS) , the new partnership will enable people will be able to view and plot cycle routes using OS maps.
Each year around 4.4 million people use the Network, for leisure or commuting.
This information will be available as a free layer on the OS Maps website, and will help people discover over 16,000 miles of traffic-free cycling and walking routes.
Data shows that over half of the UK’s population live within a mile of the Network, and it's hoped that the information will help people to accurately plan weekends away or discover routes in their local area.
“We are delighted to be partnering with Ordnance Survey to open up walking and cycling on the National Cycle Network to more people," said Xavier Brice, CEO of Sustrans.
“The Network is a well-loved, well-used asset that’s enjoyed by millions of people across the UK every year.
We hope the new maps inspire more people to get out, discover and explore all that the Network has to offer – whether that’s on wheels or by foot, for commuting or leisure purposes.”
Nick Giles, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure, said: “It’s great that we’ll be able to provide cyclists and walkers with the amazing benefits of OS Maps and open up the National Cycle Network to so many people.
We love the focus Sustrans has on making the outdoors more accessible no matter where they live, what age they are and what background they’re from. OS Maps users will also love the new layer to help them find new cycle routes and explore more on two wheels.”
