Government unveils massive £108 million active travel funding plan transforming cycle training and school walking programmes across England

A major government-backed investment is set to reshape how people move around their communities, with more than £100 million committed to active travel programmes across England.

The funding, spread over three years, is designed to make walking, cycling, and wheeling more accessible for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Rather than focusing only on infrastructure, the plan puts strong emphasis on practical support—training, community outreach, and school-based initiatives that help people feel confident choosing healthier and more sustainable ways to travel.

Where the Money Is Going

A significant portion of the funding—£78 million—will go into the widely known Bikeability programme.

Since its launch in 2007, it has already trained over 5 million children in cycling skills, and this new funding ensures that many more young people will gain that same confidence.

Another £16.1 million is allocated to Living Streets’ Walk to School Outreach initiative.

This programme works closely with primary schools, encouraging families to build walking into their daily routines and reduce reliance on cars for short journeys.

Cycling UK is also receiving £8 million to continue its Big Bike Revival scheme.

The initiative focuses on helping adults—especially women and people with disabilities—return to cycling through training sessions, free repairs, and community rides.

Meanwhile, Modeshift will benefit from £3.1 million to expand its STARS programme and Active Travel Ambassadors initiative.

These efforts empower secondary school students to promote active travel among their peers, creating a ripple effect within school communities.

Expanding Access Beyond Schools and Cities

The funding package doesn’t stop at schools and community groups.

Around £2 million will support England’s National Park Authorities in building more accessible active travel networks, ensuring that rural and natural areas are included in the shift toward sustainable transport.

In addition, up to £1 million is being set aside for selected ports and airports to develop tailored active travel plans.

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These projects will focus on improving how employees and visitors can walk or cycle to major transport hubs, combining sustainability with convenience.

Voices Behind the Initiative

Active Travel Commissioner Chris Boardman described the funding as a “practical investment” that will directly impact everyday life.

According to him, small changes—like a child cycling to school or a family choosing to walk—can collectively lead to healthier communities, reduced transport costs, and less strain on public services.

Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood also highlighted the broader vision, noting that active travel contributes to safer streets, stronger communities, and a sense of pride in local areas.

A Bigger Picture Investment

This £100 million package forms part of a larger £626 million government plan over four years.

The wider strategy aims to deliver around 500 miles of new walking and cycling routes and generate an additional 170,000 active trips daily.

Officials believe the long-term benefits go beyond transportation.

Increased physical activity is expected to reduce pressure on the NHS, cut carbon emissions, and stimulate local economies by making neighborhoods more vibrant and accessible.

Impact and Consequences

The immediate effect of this funding will be greater access to training and support, especially for groups that have traditionally faced barriers to active travel.

Children will gain early confidence, adults will have opportunities to re-engage with cycling, and communities will see safer, more connected streets.

Over time, the impact could be far-reaching.

Reduced car usage means lower emissions, less congestion, and improved air quality.

Health benefits are also significant, as regular walking and cycling are linked to fewer sick days and better overall wellbeing.

Economically, the programmes are expected to ease household transport costs while also boosting local businesses by increasing foot traffic in communities.

What’s Next?

With funding now confirmed, local authorities and partner organisations will begin rolling out programmes across England.

Schools, community groups, and transport hubs are expected to see expanded initiatives in the coming months.

The multi-year commitment also provides stability for delivery organisations, allowing them to retain skilled staff, plan long-term projects, and reach more communities effectively.

As these programmes take shape, attention will likely shift toward measuring outcomes—such as increased participation rates, reduced emissions, and improvements in public health.

Summary

England is taking a major step toward transforming everyday travel habits with a £100 million investment in active travel.

By focusing on education, accessibility, and community engagement, the initiative aims to make walking and cycling practical choices for millions of people.

The funding reflects a broader commitment to healthier lifestyles, safer streets, and a more sustainable future.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Over £100 million allocated to active travel programmes across England over three years
• £78 million dedicated to Bikeability cycle training for children
• £16.1 million supports walking-to-school initiatives through Living Streets
• £8 million funds Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival for adult cyclists
• £3.1 million helps expand school-based travel ambassador programmes
• Additional funding targets national parks, airports, and ports
• Part of a wider £626 million strategy to expand walking and cycling infrastructure
• Expected benefits include improved public health, reduced emissions, and lower transport costs
• Programmes aim to remove barriers and make active travel accessible to all age groups