MOTORISTS could be offered cheaper insurance if they go on a cycling awareness course under new plans from the Government.

The Bikeability cycle training course could see insurance companies offering discounts to drivers and motorcyclists as part of a campaign to tackle dangerous driving.

A review of the Highway Code is currently being carried out to consider its guidance about how drivers should behave in relation to vulnerable road users.

Other plans include giving the council powers to tackle dangerous parking in cycle lanes and a new police unit to analyse footage of dangerous drivers caught on dash cams by fellow motorists.

The Department for Transport (DfT) announced that the 'back office unit' will be among 50 proposed new measures in a two-year plan to protect road users and combat road rage.

Jesse Norman, Cycling and Walking Minister, said: "Greater road safety - and especially the protection of vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders - is essential.

"We want to improve air quality, encourage healthy exercise, reduce obesity and boost our high streets and economic productivity. That means more support for cycling and walking, and that's why these new measures are designed to deliver."

An alliance of leading walking and cycling organisations gave its support to the proposed shake-up of the Highway Code but expressed frustration that the overall strategy did not place more emphasis on speed reduction.

The group - consisting of Cycling UK, The Ramblers, British Cycling, Living Streets and Sustrans - believes increasing road safety and reducing the perception of danger are crucial to promoting active travel.

Paul Tuohy, Cycling UK chief executive, said: "Lowering vehicle speeds around people walking, cycling and horse riding doesn't just reduce the danger to them, but also their perception of the danger.

"While the DfT's proposals for amendments to the Highway Code will help save lives, ignoring the threat and dangers of speeding is disappointing."

Martin Tett, transport spokesman for the Local Government Association, said: "Councils continue to invest in cycling despite being hampered by funding cuts and will always look to introduce cycling provisions as part of new infrastructure when there is a clear need and demand."