The Welsh Assembly has announced plans for a £28.5m scheme, which aims to provide free cycle hire and improved bike and walking routes in and around Cradiff city centre.

The city will receive the funding from the assembly government and the county council over the next two years. If successful, the scheme could be repeated in other areas of Wales.

The sustainable transport plans will see free circular bus shuttles introduced in the city centre, a free bike hire scheme, new park and ride facilities in Pentwyn to serve the east side of the city and measures to tackle congestion.

Transport Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones said: “Commuter levels in and around Cardiff have increased significantly over the past few years. This is an exciting opportunity to develop and implement a range of innovative transport solutions which will benefit the 210,000 people who travel into the city on a daily basis.”

The scheme is also being backed by sustainable travel charity Sustrans Cymru.