Mayor Gordon Bradbery welcomed the city's announcement of the first round of regional investment into cycling infrastructure through the Wollongong 2022 Legacy Partnership Program.

The program supports projects in the lead-up to Wollongong's UCI Road World Championships, slated for September 2022.

Read more: Excitement grows over Wollongong's plan to become a cycle city

Council has worked with the Legacy Committee on the development of a legacy plan and regional priorities.

Wollongong will join with its local government neighbours to develop a Regional Cycling Strategy, led by the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation, to provide a strategic framework for the development of a strategy that will support cycling tourism in the region.

Cr Bradbery said the funding announcement was great news and came at a time when cycling was front of mind for many people.

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"We've certainly seen a dramatic growth in the interest of cycling, and people's desire to get out on their bikes, over the past few months," he said.

"This Legacy program provides the opportunity for people to seek funding support for projects that will benefit the whole community and this announcement I am sure will be welcome news to many.

"Congratulations to the six recipients of the funding, which includes the Illawarra Cycling Club in its application for improvements to the Unanderra facility. This is great news for our community who have a keen interest in cycling."

Council will continue to support the Legacy Committee and will be considering opportunities in Round 2.

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