Sir,
Walking in nature improves our health and happiness, whether on countryside paths, in town centre parks or down tree-lined streets.
Government statistics show that more people than ever have enjoyed the simple pleasures of walking since the Covid-19 pandemic began.
However, getting into nature to walk isn’t currently the same for everyone, and lockdown restrictions brought that into sharp focus. Research conducted for the Ramblers in 2020 by YouGov showed, for example, that just 46% of respondents on the lowest income had easy access to green space, compared with over 70% of those with the highest income levels.
The Ramblers is campaigning for local councils to improve our local path network, create new green routes that link people to nature, and support programmes that encourage people to enjoy walking.
As the May 5th local council elections approach, your readers can help us by writing to their local candidates, asking them to work with the Ramblers and support the Ramblers manifesto for making access to nature more equal for everyone.
They can find out how to do this at ramblers.org.uk/localelections2022.
Phil smith
