IN THE run-up to the local elections this May I believe that all candidates should consider making walking more of a priority.

Investment in active travel, such as walking and cycling schemes, can greatly benefit the health of people living locally, whilst also improving the quality of local air and the health of the local economy.

Our roads are congested and polluted, negatively affecting the people of Southampton.

An estimated 25,000 people die each year in England due to air pollution.

This should be prevented and more walking can help.

Now’s the time for future leaders to commit to Living Streets campaign to create Walking Cities across the UK.

I want to see Southampton planned around people – not vehicles – and get more people walking.

Carys Ward

Southampton