More people, more active, more often - that's the Council's vision for Mid Canterbury's updated Walking & Cycling Strategy and residents have until 30 November to have their say on the draft document.

Consultation is now open on the draft strategy which aims to make walking and cycling throughout the district a safer and even more attractive option over the next 10 years.

The strategy reflects the progress that has been made on developing trails and activity areas in recent years and looks to build on this momentum to focus on the future.​

Proposals to the walking and cycling network include improving pedestrian accessibility; reducing gaps in the footpath network in Rakaia and Methven; improving cycle lane quality, continuity and safety; investigating the separation of urban cycle-ways from traffic; increasing street lighting; and improving signage on recreational trails.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown says Mid Canterbury's combination of flat plains and more challenging terrain gives the community ample options to feed their activity levels.

"Our topography is ideal for walking and cycling and we want to make these activities as attractive as possible for the health and social benefits of our people.

"We are lucky to have very motivated local volunteer groups who have driven improvements to various trails and facilities these last few years such as the ACL Skills Park, Braided Rivers Cycle Trail, Methven Walkway and Rakaia River Terrace Walkway.

"Now is a good time for the Council to assess where we are at and what can be done to make our network even better. We have some objectives and ideas to do this, but now we need residents' feedback to ensure we've got it right.

"No matter if you walk, cycle, skate, use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, Council wants every person to be able to get out, be active and enjoy our district as much as possible."