Eggs-cellent walks this Easter in N. Ireland

27 March 2018
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With the brighter evenings, thanks to the clocks springing forward, and the milder weather, it’s the perfect time of year to get out walking.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together a useful list of events for all the family over the Easter fortnight, many of which can be combined with an active journey. We’ve made some suggestions to incorporate a walking trip into some great days out across Northern Ireland this spring.

Easter Egg hunts in Enniskillen and Omagh

Perhaps the most fun to be had in a walking trip is finding chocolate eggs along the way! Easter Egg hunts have been organised by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in both Enniskillen and Omagh town centres. You’ll find the Easter bunny in both towns from 12 noon to 4pm this Saturday 31 March, where there will also be street entertainment and face painters.

The Easter Egg Hunt will bring participants through the town centres to find Easter Eggs located in shop windows of 12 retailers. Everyone who returns to base with their completed Easter Egg Hunt activity sheet will receive a sweet treat while all completed entries will be placed in a draw to win an Easter Egg hamper. So to justify all those sweet treats here are a couple of walks we suggest:

From Enniskillen bus station or nearby car park you can walk along the River Erne past the Lakeland Forum leisure centre and explore the rich history of the town at Enniskillen Castle. For a longer walk you could visit the beautiful Georgian mansion and grounds of Florence Court, just outside Enniskillen and roll your eggs down the hill. The National Trust property has 10 miles of trails for walking and cycling in the adjoining forest park.

In Omagh, you can cross the footbridge from the bus station which is a 10-minute walk into the town centre to join the Easter Egg hunt. Afterwards you can take a stroll along the riverside path and visit the Omagh Memorial Garden and Strule Arts Centre.

  Love My Greenway, Derry~Londonderry, 7 April

Celebrating the district’s Greenways, this festival is more one to take your bike to but there’s plenty on offer for people who come by foot. The festival includes performers on unicycles and rickshaws, take part in the pop up graffiti wall, visit Sustrans’ stand and make your own bike powered smoothie plus get your bike checked with tips to keep it in tip top condition with free bike checks. Remember greenways are for walking and cycling! #LoveMyGreenway

The event takes place at the Peace Bridge, City Side which is accessible by foot from all parts of the city. It is just a 20 minute walk or five minute cycle from Derry railway and Ulsterbus station on the Waterside.

Easter at Downhill Demesne, Co Londonderry

Downhill Demesne is an extensive estate near Castlerock on the scenic north coast. It is a great place to explore for children and adults alike, as there are so many different things to see, experience and learn about. The most famous building in the Demesne is the Mussenden Temple which is perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking the sea far below.

You can take the train to Castlerock and it’s a half hour walk (1.7miles) from the seaside town to the Demesne. There is also a shared path on the main Mussenden Road if you prefer to cycle which is part of NCN route 93.

Dockside Festival 2018, Titanic Quarter, Belfast

This festival from 30 March to 3 April celebrates the opening of a new visitor centre at HMS Caroline, featuring live entertainers, film screenings and arts and crafts events for a fun-filled family programme.

The ship is the last survivor of the WW1 Battle of Jutland and is moored at Alexandra Dock, off Queens Road in the Titanic Quarter. From Belfast city centre you can walk across the spectacular pedestrian and cycle bridge near the Albert Clock, passing the Big Fish, into the Titanic Quarter. It is a half hour walk along the Lagan riverpath, past the Titanic Museum and along Queens Road. Alternatively, from east Belfast you can cycle along the Comber Greenway (NCN Route 99) and Connswater Greenway, through Victoria Park into Titanic Quarter.

For more ideas for days out go to Discover Northern Ireland For more walking and cycling routes check out the NCN in Northern Ireland

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Londoners overwhelmingly back new Cycle Superhighways

23 March 2018
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More than 80 per cent of consultation respondents support a major new cycle route – Cycle Superhighway 4 - between Tower Bridge and Greenwich, including four kilometres of protected cycletrack. News follows recent 59 per support for similar west London route, Cycle Superhighway 9.

“ The overwhelming support just shows the hunger across London for more high quality cycle routes. ”

- Matt Winfield, Sustrans’ London Director

The proposed route - Cycle Superhighway 4 - will bring the first high-quality protected cycle route to southeast London and enhance the pedestrian environment along the route with five new pedestrian crossings and upgrades to more than 20 existing ones.

The signal of public support comes soon after proposals for a route in west London, Cycle Superhighway 9, received 59 per cent support in a consultation with the results announced in February. Route 9 would run from Kensington Olympia to Brentford Town Centre, providing a safe cycle track along many busy roads in west London.

Matt Winfield, London Director at Sustrans, said:

“The overwhelming support for the CS4 consultation, with 83 per cent in favour, just shows the hunger across London for more high quality cycle routes.

“A fully protected cycle route in southeast London will be a huge step forward in tackling congestion and cleaning the air. Londoners are starting to feel the benefit of their capital’s new cycle routes, which is good news for everyone.

“We are seeing, through Sustrans’ work with boroughs, more and more Londoners backing changes that will make their neighbourhoods more welcoming and encourage walking and cycling.”

83 per cent support proposed southeast London Superhighway 4

“ Cycle Superhighway 4 will encourage many more local people on to their bikes and improve the area for pedestrians. ”

- Will Norman, Mayor’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner Transport for London (TfL) today published the initial results of a public consultation into the proposed Cycle Superhighway 4 (CS4), with overwhelming support given to the plans.

More than 3,000 people responded to the consultation on the route between Tower Bridge and Greenwich, with 83 per cent in favour. Many respondents suggested that it would make cycling safer, increase the number of people choosing to cycle in the area and help reduce air and noise pollution. The new Cycle Superhighway would provide the first high-quality segregated cycle route in southeast London, linking with the cycle network across the capital.

London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, said:

“I’m delighted that our plans to improve cycling facilities in southeast London have received such overwhelming support. We know that this is an area with huge potential and these results show what a great demand there is for a safe, segregated route. Cycle Superhighway 4 will encourage many more local people on to their bikes and improve the area for pedestrians, benefiting the whole community. I look forward to working closely with the boroughs to take our plans forward.”

TfL has worked with Lewisham, Southwark and Greenwich councils on the proposals and will be continuing to work closely with them to take the plans forward. Construction could start later in the year.

59 per cent support for west London route – Superhighway 9

Additionally, the proposed route from Kensington to Brentford – Cycle Superhighway 9 - received 5,388 direct responses the consultation, of which 59 per cent supported or strongly supported the proposals.

Transport for London have committed to review the detailed feedback in order to determine the best way forward.

Councillor Alan Smith, Deputy Mayor of Lewisham and Cabinet Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “We’re very excited about the CS4 coming to the borough. For many years we have worked with partners to improve cycling routes across the borough and the new Cycle Superhighway will make it safer to travel by bike in Lewisham and will help improve the quality of our air.”

Fran Graham, Campaigns Coordinator at London Cycling Campaign, said: “London Cycling Campaign is delighted to see the overwhelming support for Cycle Superhighway 4, demonstrating just how much a physically-protected cycle route in southeast London is needed. CS4 will enable many more people to cycle safely and enjoyably, and will connect to future routes such as the Canary Wharf - Rotherhithe walking and cycling crossing. CS4 is also vital to progress on the Mayor’s pledge to Londoners and the London Cycling Campaign to triple the mileage of protected cycle tracks during his first term.”

Gareth Powell, Managing Director of Surface Transport at TfL, said: “It’s fantastic to see that so many Londoners support this new cycle route, which will dramatically improve the safety of a series of junctions in southeast London. Cycle Superhighway 4 is a key part of our work to make cycling more accessible across London and complements proposals for a new cycle route between Rotherhithe to Peckham, the proposed Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf crossing and our growing network of Quietway routes.”

Find out about Sustrans’ work on Cycle Superhighway 9 Read our blog considering the future of London’s Cycle Superhighways

Notes

TfL consulted on its proposals for CS4 between 28 September and 19 November 2017 Of the 3,265 responses received, 83% supported or strongly supported the proposals, with 14 per cent opposed or strongly opposed and 3% neither supporting nor opposing In addition to CS4, TfL is working with Southwark Council on a potential new cycle route between Rotherhithe and Peckham and has just announced strong public support for a new walking and cycling crossing between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf, following a consultation on that scheme. CS4 will connect with Quietway 14 via the proposed segregated cycle lane on Tanner Street. This Quietway would link the North-South Cycle Superhighway with the proposed Cycle Superhighway 4. Plans for the section on Lower Road, which will incorporate the regeneration planned for Canada Water, will be consulted on at a later date.

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Huge public support for new Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf bridge

22 March 2018
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We welcome the overwhelming public support for a new walking and cycling bridge linking Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf, published on Wednesday by Transport for London (TfL).

TfL’s public consultation results show 93% of respondents support plans for a new pedestrian and cycling crossing over the Thames. Eighty-five per cent of respondents prefer a bridge over a ferry or tunnel. And the greatest support is for a bridge to link Nelson Dock and Westferry Circus.

The bridge would link up existing cycling routes, offering thousands of Londoners a quick, cheap and clean way to cross the river, and enable them to easily and safely walk or cycle around this rapidly growing part of east London for generations to come.

“ A new Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf bridge would give people a clean, healthy and quick way to get around and this public endorsement takes us one step closer. ”

- Matt Winfield, London Director, Sustrans

TfL predicts that by 2031 more than two million pedestrian and cycle journeys will be made across the bridge every year. Our research says that it could be many more.

Working with TfL on making London a city where it is easier to cycle and walk, Sustrans carried out a feasibility study into a bridge linking these two parts of London, supported with funding from TfL and local businesses, which led to TfL adopting and progressing the project.

Matt Winfield, London Director, Sustrans said:

“It’s fantastic news to hear that so many people are asking TfL to bridge the gap between Rotherhithe and Canary Wharf. Our initial feasibility study demonstrated a strong transport case for the bridge and I’m pleased to hear so many people support it. We’re really excited about the design stage later this year.

“A third of London’s growth to 2030 is set to happen in the east, beyond Tower Bridge, including a doubling in the number of jobs on the Isle of Dogs and over 4,000 new homes around Canada Water. London needs this bridge not just for people that struggle to cross the river today, but to connect these new homes and jobs in the future.

“Currently the only bridge over the Thames in the entire 20 miles to the east of Tower Bridge is a motorway, so this new bridge is greatly needed to provide Londoners with real choice and encourage walking and cycling.

“We all know that getting people out cycling or walking cuts congestion and has great benefits to our health. A new Rotherhithe to Canary Wharf bridge would give people a clean, healthy and quick way to get around and this public endorsement takes us one step closer.”

It’s no secret that London has long needed more river crossings in the east. Pleased to see strong public support for a new pedestrian and cycling crossing at Rotherhithe. https://t.co/CIuMu0aA7q

— Mayor of London (@MayorofLondon) March 21, 2018 Find out more about Sustrans’ involvement in establishing this project Read the Transport for London Report

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Community group recognised for their support on Dumfries Street Design Project

22 March 2018
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Sustrans Scotland, local residents and Dumfries and Galloway Council have been recognised for their work in Dumfries at the Scottish Civic Trust ‘My Place’ Awards, after DG1 Neighbours were awarded the Civic Champion prize for their support to the Dumfries Street Design Project.

Funded by the Scottish Government and Dumfries and Galloway Council, the ‘Neighbourhood Street Design Project’ made the neighbourhood a safer, more vibrant and attractive place to live.

People living and working in Queen Street, McLellan Street, Brooke Street and Cumberland Street have closely guided the changes carried out on their streets from initial design ideas through to the construction process. Over the past five years this has seen the installation of innovative art work, traditional Victorian street lights, gateways and greenery.

“ There has been so many positive changes that have taken place over the past few years to transform our neighbourhood and it’s great that our continued work has been recognised. ”

- Robert Rome, Chair of DG1 Neighbours

The local community was involved in the full process, and a priority of the project was to support and enable them to develop their own solution to the problems raised and ensure a lasting legacy.

As a result of the collaborative design process, the residents have come together to form a constituted community group, meaning they are now able to access funding and grants to help maintain the improvements to their local area.

Sustrans Scotland Street Design Co-ordinator Emily Davie said:

“We are thrilled DG1 Neighbours has been recognised for this award following their active participation in the Street Design project.

“The success of this project rests on the great partnership and involvement of representatives from DG1 Neighbours, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Sustrans Scotland. The local community are now feeling proud and more empowered to continue investing in and actively caring for their area.”

Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Elaine Murray said:

“We’re delighted that the neighbourhood Street Design project has been recognised for this award.

“This was an ambitious project which wouldn’t have been as successful without the backing of the local community who were involved at every level of the project and actively participated in the look and design of their area. Hopefully this project sets a good example of what can be achieved when the whole of a community is involved.”

Chair of DG1 Neighbours, Robert Rome said:

“There has been so many positive changes that have taken place over the past few years to transform our neighbourhood and it’s great that our continued work has been recognised.”

Find out more about how Street Design empowers communities.

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West Cumbria cycle bridges reopen after restoration

21 March 2018
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Three bridges have reopened on popular cycle and walking routes between Whitehaven and Rowrah, as part of work our work to restore the built and natural heritage of the former iron ore railways in the area.

Tracks of the Ironmasters project, which is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, will restore a total 41 historic bridges and structures along 16 miles of routes in West Cumbria, and develop a signed trail including stories from the local community.

We worked with specialists to repair and improve three bridges which serve the National Cycle Network routes around Cleator Moor in Copeland – part of the main cycle connection between Hadrian’s Cycleway and the Sea to Sea (C2C). The work included de-scaling and repainting the distinctive metal railway bridges at Montreal Cottage and at Parkside (across the busy A5086 Cockermouth – Egremont main road). The team also repainted the newer metal footbridge carrying the National Cycle Network route 72 at Blind Lane, as well as undertaking extensive timber replacement and maintenance work on the three bridges.

The bridges carrying the cycle path were each closed for three week intervals during the winter while works were completed.

Claire Kerrin, Sustrans Network Development Manager said:

“I’m delighted to say that the bridges at Montreal Cottages, Parkside and Blind Lane South are all now renovated and open for people on foot or by bike. These are very well-used sections of the path so we worked to a tight schedule to make sure the work was completed ahead of the Spring season. Two of the bridges were over 100 years old and are fascinating reminders of the foot and cycle path’s past history as an iron ore railway.”

The local team in West Cumbria will now work with volunteers to reseed grass verges with wildflowers and continue work to enhance wildlife habitats in the area. The tracks act as vital routes for wildlife as well as people and are home to rare species such as red squirrels, the small blue butterfly and nationally significant hay meadows.

Tracks of the Ironmasters routes are part of the long distance cycle route the Sea to Sea, a 140 mile challenge route which attracts over 15,000 people every year. We are carrying out bridge restoration work along 42 miles of the C2C.

Find out more about our projects across the country For more information, images and interviews please contact:
Sarah Roe, Marketing and Communications Officer (north),  T: 0161 233 4071 or M:07785 268 417

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Call for UK Government to join up cycling and walking policies with air quality plans to tackle crisis

21 March 2018
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We set out recommendations for the UK Government, from local authority and public health representatives, to solve UK’s air pollution crisis.

The UK Government should join up policies that have a positive impact on air quality, starting with properly funding and linking cycling and walking plans with Clean Air Plans.

The “Actively Improving Air Quality” report from a round table Sustrans held with local authorities and Chris Boardman, in his role as Greater Manchester’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner sets out ten recommendations for UK and local government, and charities working in the field, to help clean up the air.

It follows the joint parliamentary committee inquiry report published last week, which calls for the UK Government to take meaningful action on air pollution amid a series of court rulings in recent years.

The report concludes that cycling and walking programmes have a key role to play in reducing emissions from motor vehicles, which are responsible for the majority of air quality limit breaches in the UK, through a shift away from car journeys.

However, there are many barriers that local authorities currently face that prevent them from effectively implementing such programmes, including lack of political leadership on air quality; timing – the pressure for immediate success; funding; car dominance and lack of community engagement.

Other key report recommendations for the UK Government to overcome these barriers include:

Lead a national campaign to increase awareness and build momentum from communities to tackle air pollution and give politicians the mandate to act. Prioritise direct measures to limit private vehicles as the mode of choice into city centres as a central component of Clean Air Zones, and help local authorities take action to deliver long-term continuous improvement in air quality beyond 2020. Provide dedicated, continuous funding for walking and cycling to enable local authorities to prepare active travel programmes that are shovel-ready to tackle air pollution.

Furthermore, local government should place health practitioners in transport and planning teams, to help integrate cycling and walking infrastructure that promotes a healthier lifestyle and better air quality.

Anita Konrad, England Director for Sustrans said:

“We face an air quality crisis. This is an invisible issue that kills tens of thousands of people prematurely every year in the UK; and will be the greatest environmental cause of mortality worldwide by 2050.

“One of the best ways to improve air quality in the UK is to reduce the number of motorised vehicles on the road and offer alternatives to private vehicle travel, such as walking and cycling.

“We’re calling on the UK Government to take joined-up action on linking policy and funding for walking, cycling and reducing air pollution and to help local authorities to encourage more people to travel by bike and on foot for shorter journeys. It is time for the Government to take the lead and work with others to deliver tangible solutions to save lives.”

Neil Tuck, Sustainable City Team Leader at Southampton City Council said:

“We want to see a long term commitment by Government to delivering ongoing improvements to air quality that go beyond compliance to EU standards by 2020.

“Accessing funding for, and developing, walking and cycling schemes needs to be made as easy as possible, and a priority for Government, if we are to enable healthier lifestyles, improve air quality and see long term transformation in UK cities. Promoting the health benefits associated with active and sustainable travel is essential for creating an environment where people want to live and work.”

In joint research with environmental consultancy Eunomia, released last year, Sustrans found that if government goals for walking and cycling in England and Scotland were reached, this would save the public purse £9.3 billion and reduce over 12,000 premature deaths from air pollution over the next decade. The gains would be even bigger if wider benefits to health and wellbeing from increased physical activity were included.

To read the full report go to www.sustrans.org.uk/airquality

Notes to editors

For further information and to request interviews contact:

Anna Galandzij, Senior Press Officer at Sustrans, 07557 915 648, anna.galandzij@sustrans.org.uk
Liv Denne, Press and Media Officer at Sustrans, 07768 035318, liv.denne@sustrans.org.uk

Twenty nine local authorities in England that are breaking legal air quality limits are to produce Clean Air Plans by November 2018 with this number set to increase following successful legal action by Client Earth against the Government, whilst the devolved nations are trialling a number of different plans to improve air quality. The Scottish Government, for instance, is proposing to introduce Low Emission Zones in four cities by 2020 and air quality management areas (AQMAs) by 2023 across the country. Sustrans is the charity making it easier for people to walk and cycle.  We connect people and places, create liveable neighbourhoods, transform the school run and deliver a happier, healthier commute. Sustrans is a registered charity no. 326550 (England and Wales) SCO39263 (Scotland). Established in 2001, Eunomia Research & Consulting Ltd (‘Eunomia’) is a Bristol-based, independent consultancy and an appointed advisor to many types of organisations including the European Commission; www.eunomia.co.uk

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Sustrans celebrates opening of more Quietways in London

21 March 2018
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We’re celebrating the opening of new sections of Quietway routes in Brent and Lambeth. Our project team have been working hard with Transport for London (TfL) as well as Brent Council and Lambeth Council to open up the Quietway network further, making it easier for Londoners to cycle around their capital.

The first sections of Quietway 3 in Brent and Quietway 5 in Lambeth are now open, offering people a real choice to leave their car at home, get on their bikes and cycle down quieter streets, away from the busier roads in London.

“ We’re proud to have helped TfL and the London Boroughs of Brent and Lambeth make it easier for people to cycle. It’s been great working with the councils making the Quietways a reality for Londoners. ”

-  Matt Winfield, London Director, Sustrans

Brent’s first Quietway section links Gladstone Park with Kilburn Station and in Lambeth the new Quietway section links Oval and Clapham Old Town.

Along with TfL, we want to encourage people to try out these routes for themselves and experience their commute, their trip to the local shops or their journey to school in a completely different way – leaving the car at home and jumping on the bike.

The new routes complement a number of other cycling initiatives across London including Mini-Holland schemes and Cycle Superhighways.

Quietways are designed to make cycling more attractive by providing a continuous cycling route away from busier streets. All Quietways are marked with purple signs to help people find their way along roads they may never have cycled along before. The routes are ideal for people who are new to cycling, as well as anyone who wants to cycle on quieter streets.

‘Although it takes longer to drive it’s lovely when I ride’ feedback from mum & son using Q5 for school run @lambeth_council #healthystreets pic.twitter.com/zD4Q5q0YCD

— Sustrans in London (@SustransLondon) April 25, 2017

These new routes are part of the Mayor of London’s commitment to record levels of spending on cycling, an average of £169 million in investment per year over the next five years.

Awarded Transport Consultant of the Year 2018, we’ve already been formally recognised for our work with TfL, London boroughs and many others, helping to transform the capital into a cycle and pedestrian-friendly city. And we’re looking forward to continuing our working with our partners to make it easier for all Londoners to cycle.

Brent – Q3

Quietway 3 travels through Gladstone Park before connecting to Willesden Green station along Park Avenue. It then continues along Chatsworth Road to provide a further connection to Tube services at Kilburn station. The section from Gladstone Park to Kilburn station is the first of a longer route, which will eventually provide a direct, quick and safe link to Regent’s Park.

Lambeth – Q5

The route provides a quieter connection between Oval station and Clapham Old Town. Cyclists can also connect to Cycle Superhighway 7 at Clapham Common and Cycle Superhighway 5 at Oval.

The section from Oval to Clapham Old Town is the first of a longer route, which will eventually provide a direct, quick and safe link from Waterloo in the north to Norbury in the south. At Waterloo, cyclists will be able to continue their journeys along quieter streets on Quietway 1, which runs to Greenwich. The route will also connect to Q4 at Clapham Common, providing a route all the way from Waterloo via Clapham Common to Wimbledon.

Matt Winfield, London Director, Sustrans said:

“We’re proud to have helped TfL and the London Boroughs of Brent and Lambeth make it easier for people to cycle. It’s been great working with the councils making the Quietways a reality for Londoners.

“In Brent, we’ve also helped support the council and TfL with improvements near to Q3 at Carlton Vale in Lambeth, Q5 opens up very useful connections to other parts of London’s cycling network. It is also ideal for anyone wanting a quieter alternative to the busy Cycle Superhighway 7.

“Quietways help to give more transport choices to anyone wanting to get about under their own steam. There’s already been a 56% rise in people riding the first Quietway route from Waterloo to Greenwich, and it’s exciting to think that there is still a lot more to come, with 28 Quietway routes now in delivery across the capital. These will help reduce traffic congestion, improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing and help improve our air quality.”

Brent’s environment chief Cllr Eleanor Southwood said:

“We’re committed to encouraging even more people to either discover the joys of cycling for the first time, or return to pedal after a break, so the new Quietway cycle route is really welcome.”

Find out more about London’s Quietways  Hear what people riding Quietway 1 had to say

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Over 400,000 pupils registered for Big Pedal event with world record breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont

20 March 2018
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More than 1,000 schools and 400,000 pupils are taking on the challenge of ‘Around the world in 10 days’, as part of the Big Pedal 2018 with world record breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont.

The UK-wide event, which runs from Monday 23 April to Friday 4 May, will see pupils, parents and teachers leave their cars at home and get on their bikes and scooters for their journeys to and from school.

During the 10 days, participating primary and secondary schools will compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike or scooter. The theme of this year’s Big Pedal, ‘Around the world in 10 days’, links to key parts of the geography curriculum, such as being able to name the world’s continents and oceans.

Endurance cyclist Mark Beaumont, who holds the Guinness World Record for cycling around the world in 78 days, is backing the Big Pedal 2018. After 18,000 miles on the road last summer, covering 240 miles a day and taking in 16 countries, Mark smashed the previous record by 44 days.

Participating primary and secondary schools will receive a pack of teaching resources, including a map of the world for pupils to track their progress. Pupils will follow Mark’s route, learning about the countries he passed through on his trip via a series of fact cards provided as part of the resources pack.

Setting off from the UK, stops along the way include France, Germany, Latvia, China, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and Spain. Each country’s card will include details such as the capital city and population size, as well as a piece of cycling or scooting related trivia. Children, parents and teachers will also be able to log, track and compare their journeys online using the Big Pedal website. 

Commenting on the event, Mark said: “I’m delighted to be supporting the Big Pedal 2018. It’s a great initiative for getting more young people on their bikes and scooters, building their confidence and independence in a fun and engaging way. 

“Encouraging young people to cycle and scoot from an early age not only boosts physical and mental health, it also helps build good habits for independent and active travel into teenage and adult life. I hope as many schools as possible will take part in this year’s ‘Around the World in 10 days’ Sustrans’ Big Pedal challenge.”

According to government guidelines, children and young people aged 5 to 18 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day (1).

Walking, scooting or cycling to school is one way of boosting children’s activity levels and helping them maintain a healthy weight, while reducing congestion and air pollution around the school gates.

Teachers find that pupils who walk and cycle arrive at school more relaxed, alert and ready to start the day than those who travel by car (2).

Organised by walking and cycling charity Sustrans, and sponsored by Micro Scooters and Tonik, the Big Pedal is the largest competition of its kind in the UK.

Last year nearly 1,700 schools registered to take part, with teachers, parents, siblings and pupils making more than a million journeys to school by bike or scooter.

The Big Pedal 2018 is open to individual classes as well as whole schools, with hundreds of thousands of pupils expected to take part. To register visit www.bigpedal.org.uk

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Edinburgh Tram Extension: Our Response

20 March 2018

In 2013, Sustrans Scotland entered into an agreement with City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) to provide £3.6m from Transport Scotland over three years to deliver an exemplary design for Leith Walk which would enhance the public realm and enable a greater number of journeys by foot and by bicycle. 

As a consequence Sustrans Scotland was invited to join the CEC design team and attended regular design review meetings. The Agreement expired in 2016 with £1.4m spent and work completed between the Foot of The Walk and the McDonald Road junction.    We understood that future developments of designs for Leith Walk, north of Pilrig St to The Foot of the Walk, and from McDonald Rd south to London Rd, would continue the fully segregated cycle lanes that have been delivered from McDonald Rd to Pilrig St. However, the current tram design proposals do not reflect those set out in the Leith Programme.    Our key issues with the current proposals, as presented, are: Greater clarification is required on the presence of a route safety audit and details of the measures which have been included in the design to reduce the likelihood of collisions and incidents involving tram tracks. There is apparently limited scope for community engagement to have any significant influence on the design, given the advanced stage of the project. The proposed designs do not prioritise people on foot and on bikes above other modes of transport, failing to adhere to the transport hierarchy. Since the agreement expired, Sustrans Scotland have not renewed our funding arrangements for the Leith Programme. We will not commit any further funding to the project unless major changes are made to the proposal or a significant suite of complementary measures are developed.   We are keen however to work with City of Edinburgh Council, Transport for Edinburgh and the Tram delivery team to find solutions that prioritise walking, cycling and sustainable transport. As such, we have set out what we believe to be the opportunities and the risks associated with the various sections of the route in the new proposals.    We will continue to work in partnership with CEC, with meaningful and constructive engagement to help make it easier for people to walk and cycle in Edinburgh.   For a more detailed overview of the opportunities and the risks associated with the various sections of the route in the new proposals, please read our commentary here. 

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Calling for a new Clean Air Act

15 March 2018

In response to the findings of the unprecedented joint parliamentary committee report on improving air quality, Xavier Brice, CEO, of cycling and walking charity Sustrans said: We welcome and support the findings of the ‘Improving Air Quality’ report. The Government must act now to form a new Clean Air Act, fit for the 21st century, that improves existing legislation and enshrines our right to breathe clean air into UK law. We also support the need for a broader Clean Air Fund, partly funded by the automobile industry under the polluter pays principle, and for the need to bring forward the date by which manufacturers must end the sale of conventional petrol and diesel cars, in line with more ambitious commitments from around the world. It is clear that we must reduce the number of journeys from private motor vehicles on our roads to improve air quality. To do this the UK Government should show leadership by helping local authorities to enable more people to travel by bike and on foot for shorter journeys. This will improve the air we all breathe, particularly in more deprived communities which are disproportionately affected by air pollution, whilst also reducing congestion and increasing physical activity. It is time for the Government to take bold action to save lives.

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Help us clean up the C2C in County Durham

13 March 2018
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Our team in the North East are appealing for volunteers for a series of litter picks along a 14-mile section of the Sea to Sea (C2C) cycle route, from Chester le-Street to Consett, as part of Durham County Council’s “Big Spring Clean”.

Our first litter pick took place on 9 March on the Chester-Le-Street to Pelton section of the path, when 20 volunteers collected 48 bags of rubbish.

Sarah Donnelly, our volunteer coordinator in the North East said:

“Please join our Big Spring Clean along the Sea to Sea and help us keep our cycle and walking route free from litter. Last year we collected an incredible 250 bin bags of litter, so in spite of the unseasonal cold we’re hoping to get the same response this year. We will provide all equipment but please dress in suitable warm or waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.”

The C2C cycle and walking route runs 140 miles from Whitehaven to Sunderland. We own and manage some traffic free sections, including areas between Consett to Chester-le-Street, Whitehaven to Rowrah and Workington to Keswick.

Our team would like to hear from anyone who wants to help keep the C2C path clear of rubbish or to help with a wide variety of maintenance and wildlife management jobs.

Litter pickers or gloves and binbags will all be provided courtesy of Sustrans and Durham County Council.

Please bring along a pair of gardening gloves if you have them. It may also be useful to bring along a drink and a snack for yourself. Please come along dressed for the weather with warm and/or waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.

For more information please see our Sustrans North East Facebook page or contact Sarah Donnelly, Volunteer Coordinator, 07780 612252. 

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Children's mosaics at Lincoln shops

9 March 2018
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We’ve been working with school children in Lincoln to bring customers a new addition to their local shops! Twelve mosaics designed by local school children are now on permanent display around the doors of the ‘round shops’ on Moorland Avenue.

The round mosaics were created at a series of workshops at Priory Witham Academy in Lincoln as part of an initiative called Moorlands Local People Project. They were then finished off with the help of a few grown-ups from the local community. They were unveiled at a ceremony on Monday 5 March by the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Chris Burke.

Funded by the People’s Health Trust, the Moorland Local People project is an exciting initiative being delivered by Sustrans with support from Lincoln City Council and Lincolnshire County Council. The overall aim of the project is to improve health and wellbeing by creating a better place to live.

The mosaics idea was initiated by residents involved in the project as part of a programme to brighten up the area. They’ve also installed a number of plant containers around the area and planted spring bulbs.

Speaking at the unveiling Sustrans Community Project Officer, Jo Collett, said: 

“This project is all about brightening up our local neighbourhood and bringing people together. Pupils were invited to submit mosaic designs into our competition with a simple brief to make them colourful.

“The winning designs were judged by representatives from the Moorland Local People Project, Priory Witham Academy and Lincoln City Council with guidance from professional mosaic artist, Louise Hill. I hope that residents of all ages will enjoy this latest colourful addition to the round shops”

Please contact Jo Collett on: jo.collett@sustrans.org.uk  for more information.

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Start the day the Feet First Families Way

9 March 2018
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Schools across Northern Ireland reclaimed their car parks today and turned them into fun creative places as part of Sustrans new Feet First Families Initiative.

Most children in Northern Ireland that we have surveyed as part of the Active School Travel Programme want to walk, cycle or scoot to school but less than half do. Despite the fact that fifty per cent of primary school-children live within a very walkable mile to school, almost two thirds (65%) are driven to/from the school-gates.

In fact one in four cars during the rush hour are doing the school-run adding to air pollution and congestion which makes the school journey more hazardous.

“ Helping families to ditch the car in favour of walking or cycling is a great way of keeping children active and healthy. ”

- Dr Penny Woods, CEO British Lung Foundation

Sustrans Active Travel Manager, Beth Harding said: “Feet First Families was a great success today. It was an opportunity for schools to see what it would be like if we all travelled actively to school. So much of the space around our schools is dedicated to car parking and why should that be the case?

"I was at Orangefield Primary School today in east Belfast where the pupils and teachers have come up with some creative ideas to reclaim the car park, turning it into a cycling obstacle course and fun play area. But it wasn’t just here in east Belfast but schools right across Northern Ireland, from Rosemount Primary in Derry~Londonderry to Bocombra Primary in Portadown enjoyed transforming their school space and seeing what it can be like free of cars.”

Dr Penny Woods, Chief Executive of the British Lung Foundation supported the initiative. She said: “Helping families to ditch the car in favour of walking or cycling is a great way of keeping children active and healthy. It’s also the best way to reduce the current dangerous levels of air pollution. 

"We know that toxic air is particularly damaging to children’s growing lungs. There are links to lung infections, underdeveloped lungs and emerging evidence of the impact on cognitive development. Few things are as precious as our children’s health. Which is why we cannot allow toxic air from vehicle emissions, particularly diesel, to put their lungs at risk.”

The initiative was endorsed by former World Champion cyclist and Olympic Silver Medallist, Lizzie Deignan.

“My introduction to sport and fitness started when I began walking to school,” Lizzie said. “You can join in and be part of the campaign starting with Feet First Families on 9 March.”

The Feet First Families Initiative is a one-day event but with the long-term aim of changing travel habits. It is part of our award-winning Active School Travel Programme, funded jointly by the Department for Infrastructure and the Public Health Agency, which encourages school-children to walk, scoot or cycle to school.

We are currently working with more than 280 schools, both primary and post-primary, across Northern Ireland to promote active travel on the school run and it has seen great results.

In the schools where we have worked in 2016-17, the number of children walking and cycling to school rose from 36% to 46% with a corresponding fall in those driven to school – down from 56% to 47%.

Read more about the Active School Travel Programme

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Road safety applies to everyone – our response to the UK Government’s cycle and walking safety review

9 March 2018

The Department for Transport (DfT) has today published a call for evidence on cycling and walking safety in the UK, asking for a range of views and opinions from the public on everything from better infrastructure to education for all road users.

This is part of the Government’s drive to make travel on foot or by bike safer, while encouraging more people to take up cycling at all ages.

Responding, Xavier Brice, CEO of walking and cycling charity Sustrans said:

“We welcome the Government’s ‘Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy Safety Review’ and especially the inclusion of pedestrians in the review. This is something we advocated. Safety concerns are some of the greatest barriers to more people choosing to walk and cycle and we are pleased that the Review is seeking to make it easier for everyone to travel on foot or by bike, and recognises the wide benefits that active travel brings to individuals and societies.

“Road safety applies to everyone, regardless of travel mode and we broadly support the case for a new offence to tackle dangerous cycling. However, it must remain proportional as people on bikes rarely cause harm to others through their own actions but, like pedestrians, are particularly vulnerable to motor vehicles which are by far the largest cause of death and serious injury on our roads. It is therefore good to see this as only one part of a much wider safety review to enable more people to walk and cycle every day.”

Sustrans is part of the DfT’s Cycle Safety Sounding Board advising on the review.

We are pleased with the overall framework of the call for evidence, particularly as it highlights factors that can ensure safe and reliable ways to travel actively, including infrastructure and traffic signs.

We will be working with the Government and other organisations to ensure the review is part of a broader road safety review and that it delivers practical solutions to improve safety for pedestrians and people on bikes.

The call for evidence opens for 12 weeks until early June.

For more information, interviews and photos, please contact

Anna Galandzij, senior press officer at Sustrans, anna.galandzij@sustrans.org.uk, 075 5791 5648
 

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Sunderland group got women cycling

8 March 2018
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A community cycling group which has helped hundreds of women in Sunderland get active and healthy through cycling and walking has released its final results ahead of International Women’s Day.

Our Bike Belles Wear Moving project, which was funded by Sunderland Public Health, held 297 cycling and walking activities with 2395 attendees in Sunderland between 2015-2017, according to final results published today.

Women said the weekly cycling and walking events, such as social bike rides, maintenance workshops and training sessions, helped them lose weight, get fit, improve confidence and tackle chronic physical and mental health issues. On average respondents said their physical activity increased by an average of three hours compared to before they joined the group.

Nationally almost three times as many men cycle than women, while in some Northern European countries like Denmark, where cycle lanes separate from traffic are the norm, women on bikes slightly outnumber men.

Bike Belles was born out of a Sunderland Wear Moving Project, which had a programme of activities to encourage staff to cycle to work. A six-week women-only indoor cycle class proved particularly popular and demonstrated that many women are put off cycling in mixed groups.

The group began a series of led bike rides and workshops for women and their families from the Bike Dock in Sunderland, supported by an active network of 20 volunteers which helped to lead the events.

Lucy Fenwick, our Project Officer for Bike Belles said: “The Bike Belles has provided a fantastic support network for local women to get fit and active at their own pace. Several women in the group are living with chronic health conditions, including Fibromyalgia, Functional Neurological Disorder and mental health issues, and through cycling they’ve been able to improve their fitness and confidence, whilst making new friends and exploring the local area. There are so many beautiful easy cycle routes around Sunderland so there’s always somewhere new to discover.”

When Marilyn Ward first joined Bike Belles in 2016 she suffered from high blood pressure, angina, lower back pain and bursitis of the hip. Her mobility was poor, she was overweight and diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.  Since she joined she has lost over two stone in weight and is fitter and more confident.

“Since Joining Bike Belles I have become much healthier and more mobile. My angina and blood pressure are under control and my diabetes has improved so much that I’m below the level for diagnosis.  I have grown in confidence and my self-esteem has also improved. I really enjoy cycling, it’s wonderful being able to get out in the great outdoors and meeting new people, and not having to sit in traffic jams.”

Volunteer Andrea George said:

“I first got involved with Sustrans through the Sunderland Wear Moving Bike Project at Sunderland University - the spin classes, and the online workplace team challenge were particularly motivating and fun.  Watching your team’s position move up and down the league was definitely inspiration to commute by bike more.

“From there I became a volunteer at Sustrans and I’ve truly enjoyed every activity that I’ve been involved in.  I’ve made loads of new friends, and of course improved my geographical knowledge of local coffee shops!”

Andrea George received our Volunteer of the Year Award in the North for Outstanding Commitment to Volunteering.

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Sustrans calls for better representation of women in transport planning and delivery in Scotland

5 March 2018

Sustrans Scotland has highlighted the need for more equal representation of women in transport planning and delivery in Scotland following the release of a new report on gender and active travel by the charity. 

Released just three days before International Women’s Day, the report concludes that better representation of women in transport policy, practice and planning would help address the low numbers of women travelling actively across Scotland. 

The, ‘Are We Nearly There Yet?’ report, looked at the travel habits and choices of nearly 2,000 women in Glasgow and combined the findings with a literature review of research on women’s mobility patterns across Scotland, the UK and Europe.

It found that women’s journeys around cities were typically shorter than men’s, and more likely to involve ‘trip-chaining’ (multi-stop journeys) which tended to balance child care, work and other responsibilities. Women’s trips also used a number of different modes of transport. 

And, whilst women were motivated to travel actively for physical and mental health reasons, worries about their personal safety, convenience (particularly when taking multi-stop trips) and appearance were all barriers which stopped them from choosing more active ways of getting around more often.

The report also found that there was a lack of evidence to show how women participated in creating transport policy and planning in the UK. Currently, transport has the lowest percentage representation of women in senior posts within the public sector in Scotland with women representing only 6.25% heads of transport bodies.  

Sustrans Scotland’s Evaluation Manager, Suzanne Motherwell, who led the research, said: “Our research has shown that there are a number of women-specific barriers such as lack of time, complex schedules and fears of personal safety, which stop them from travelling actively more often. 

“If we are to get more people walking and cycling it is essential that we address the inequalities that exist between men and women in transport – at every level – from users right through to planning and policy making. 

“By designing and building infrastructure that caters for women’s needs, as well as men’s, then we can help ensure the gap between the levels of women and men cycling is closed, and importantly, improve the overall everyday cycling levels in our cities and towns.”

The research has been welcomed by Engender, Scotland’s feminist organisation.  Engender has done wide-reaching research on women’s representation in decision making and power.  The organisation has also highlighted issues experienced by women in public spaces and on public transport as part of their recently-published ‘Gender Matters Roadmap’.   

Emma Ritch, Executive Director of Engender, said: “It is good to see Sustrans highlighting the links between transport policy and women’s equality, and we hope to see women’s different experience of travel integrated into all of their future work. 

“Scotland’s travel systems are not designed around the needs of women, who tend to make shorter and more frequent journeys and are more concerned about their personal safety. 

“This obliviousness is perhaps unsurprising given that women are massively underrepresented in transport bodies: only 6.25% of their chief officers are women. Making active travel work for women makes it work better for all.”

Case study

Since moving to Glasgow four years ago, Rebecka Bergh has mostly travelled round the city by bike, as she feels it is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient option for her than walking or taking public transport.

The 25 year old student, from Sweden, says that bikes were the default mode of transport when growing up. However, Rebecka doesn’t see herself as being a confident cyclist often feels intimidated by other traffic on the city roads. 

She also admits that travelling around by bike limits the kind of clothes she could wear each day, but said she tried not to let her appearance deter her from cycling each day. “I know that appearance and the way you look is a big issue for some women and from time to time it does bother me. 

“It means that I don’t tend to wear skirts or dresses, and if it’s raining for example, I will choose not to wear makeup. However I don’t tend to cycle particularly fast and I have a cap that I wear to protect my hair and eye make-up, so I don’t feel too messy when I arrive at university.”

Rebecka says that her lack of confidence when on her bike is her biggest issue when travelling around Glasgow. “Drivers don’t tend to think about what it is like for people on bikes going about the city and I’m not very good at being assertive when I’m on my bike on the road. I am not always confident that I know if I am allowed in certain spaces,” she said. 

“So when I feel that cars are getting too close or that they are getting impatient because I am cycling slowly, I don’t have the confidence to mark my space and will often find myself cycling very close to the pavement instead of keeping my distance from it which can be dangerous.

“I know if I was more assertive on my bike and cycled faster they would respect my space, but then that means that I am more likely to end up hot and bothered when I arrive at my destination.

“Having cycle routes and networks designed with women in mind would make a huge difference to my journey every day. To have paths which are safer and less intimidating to use would make the world of difference and I hope it would encourage more women to travel by bike when possible.”

Find out more about our work in Scotland 

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We are calling for equal representation of women in transport planning and delivery in the UK

5 March 2018
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Ahead of International Women’s Day, we have highlighted the need for equal gender representation in transport planning and delivery to help address the low numbers of women travelling actively in the UK.

A new active travel and gender report we’ve released today shows that women’s journeys around cities are typically shorter than men’s, use different modes of transport and are more likely to involve ‘trip-chaining’ (multi-stop journeys) which tend to be for a balance of child care, work and household responsibilities.

And, whilst women are motivated to travel actively for physical and mental health reasons, worries about their personal safety, convenience (particularly when taking multi-stop trips) and appearance are all barriers to preventing them from cycling and walking.

The ‘Are We Nearly There Yet?’ report looked at the travel habits and choices of nearly 2,000 women in Glasgow and combined the findings with a literature review of research on women’s travel patterns across Scotland, the UK and Europe.

The report also found that there is a lack of evidence to show how women participate in creating transport policy and planning in the UK. Currently, transport has the lowest percentage of women in senior posts within the public sector in Scotland, with women representing only 6.25% heads of transport bodies. In addition, the transport sector accounts for only 22% of female workers UK-wide.

“ It is good to see Sustrans are highlighting the links between transport policy and women’s equality, and we hope to see women’s different experience of travel integrated into all of their future work. ”

- Emma Ritch, Executive Director of Engender

Sustrans Scotland’s Evaluation Manager, Suzanne Motherwell, who led the research, said:

“Our research has shown that there are a number of women-specific barriers such as lack of time, complex schedules and fears of personal safety, which stop them from travelling actively more often. 

“If we are to get more people walking and cycling, the industry must address the inequalities that exist in transport – at every level – from users right through to planning and policy making. 

“By designing and building infrastructure that caters for both genders’ needs, we can help ensure the gap between the levels of women and men cycling is closed, and importantly improve the everyday cycling levels in our cities and towns.”

Katie Hulland, President of Women in Transport, said:

“Less than one-quarter of UK transport workers are women, so we are massively under-represented in the planning and delivery of transport policy, infrastructure and services. We agree a more gender balanced workforce would help the transport sector better address women’s needs as customers and service users. 

“As the leading professional network for women in transport, we’re working with the transport industry, parliament, government and beyond, to address women’s under-representation and promote a diverse and inclusive transport workforce.”

The research has also been welcomed by Engender, Scotland’s feminist organisation. Engender has carried out wide-reaching research on women’s representation in decision making and power and has also highlighted issues experienced by women in public spaces and on public transport as part of its recently-published ‘Gender Matters Roadmap’.   

Emma Ritch, Executive Director of Engender, said:

“It is good to see Sustrans are highlighting the links between transport policy and women’s equality, and we hope to see women’s different experience of travel integrated into all of their future work. 

“Scotland’s travel systems are not designed around the needs of women, who tend to make shorter and more frequent journeys and are more concerned about their personal safety. 

“This obliviousness is perhaps unsurprising given that women are massively underrepresented in transport bodies: only 6.25% of their chief officers are women. Making active travel work for women makes it work better for all.”

Lynda Addison OBE, Chair of the Transport Planning Society, said:

“Gender considerations need to be included at the earliest stages of planning transport and infrastructure, as part of an inclusive planning and transport policy, as well as the design process. While transport planning is a fairly diverse profession, we know more needs to be done and we want more women to choose transport planning careers. That’s why we’re designing a campaign to promote transport planning to a more diverse talent pool. The ambition is for transport planners to more accurately mirror the demographic of service users, so planners can better cater for customers’ needs.”

In Glasgow, 2% of women chose cycling as a mode of transportation, compared to 16% of men. The figures mirror cycling levels across the UK, with men doing nearly three times as many cycling journeys as women.  

For more information, interviews and photos, contact:

Anna Galandzij, Senior Press Officer,
Anna.Galandzij@sustrans.org.uk, 07557 915 648
Charlotte Otter, Senior Communications and Public Affairs Officer,
Charlotte.Otter@sustrans.org.uk, 07837 572 705

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Sustrans stand-out winner at prestigious London Transport Awards

2 March 2018

We are proud to announce we have won two prestigious London Transport Awards last night, Thursday 1 March, coming top in the categories Excellence in Cycling and Walking and Transport Consultant of the Year. 

Excellence in Cycling and Walking

In an inspiring field, Sustrans was recognised for the Marks Gate project which will continue to benefit the residents of Barking and Dagenham, East London, for years to come.
The two-year project delivered in partnership with the council brought together hundreds of residents, local politicians, businesses, faith leaders, Transport for London (TfL), transport planners and designers to transform the Marks Gate area into a place where people can enjoy healthier and safer streets.
In partnership with the community and council, Sustrans delivered improvements including redesigning streets, making the area walking and cycling friendly, installing artwork and opening up of public space.

Marks Gate has been brought up to a Healthy Streets standard. The collaborative design process was delivered at the same time as a comprehensive cycle training and access programme, which helped the residents lead more active lifestyles, increased social interaction and improved community cohesion.

Sustrans’ London Director Matt Winfield said:

“We are hugely proud of our work in Marks Gate and are thrilled to win this award. The project has involved many people who have all come together to make Marks Gate a great place to live and work. Transforming the local environment has meant people are more active and there’s a greater sense of community. Residents have been vital to making this project a success and I hope they continue to enjoy the local environment they have helped to create.”

Transport consultant of the year

Sustrans was also named the Transport Consultant of the Year.

We were recognised for our work with TfL, London Boroughs and many others, in helping to transform the capital into a cycle and pedestrian-friendly city.

As delivery agent for TfL and in partnership with a range of organisations including local councils, Sustrans is helping to roll out the £119m Quietway programme across 30 London boroughs to encourage people to switch to pedal power.

Quietway 1 (Q1) from Waterloo to Greenwich opened in 2016. Six new routes are close to completion, with 28 routes currently in delivery.

Research on the route shows a 56% increase in cyclists using Q1 since it was completed*.

Sustrans London Director Matt Winfield said:

“We are hugely proud of our work with TfL and all our project partners, including London Boroughs, on Quietways. We’re all about making it easier for people to cycle and walk around our amazing capital.

“Quietways provide routes which can encourage people to change the way they get around, reducing traffic congestion, improving physical and mental wellbeing as well as helping to improve air quality.

“We know providing great alternatives for active travel has a positive impact on people’s quality of life. We want to work with other cities across the country to help streets work better for more people.” 

* Included in the written response from the Mayor of London received 31/07/2017 to a question on cycling and walking expenditure from Caroline Pidgeon MBE (Question No: 2017/2852)

Notes to editors

1. Sustrans is the charity making it easier for people to walk and cycle. We are engineers and educators, experts and advocates. We connect people and places, create liveable neighbourhoods, transform the school run and deliver a happier, healthier commute. Sustrans works in partnership, bringing people together to find the right solutions. We make the case for walking and cycling by using robust evidence and showing what can be done. We are grounded in communities and believe that grassroots support combined with political leadership drives real change, fast.

2. Sustrans and TfL are working with the following partners on Quietways:
Wheels for Wellbeing – supporting disabled people to enjoy cycling
Royal Haskoning DHV – innovators in Dutch cycle design
Local Transport Projects – road safety experts
Phil Jones Associates – transport planning consultants

Mayor of London’s transport strategy targets
80% journeys by walk/cycle/public transport by 2041
70% Londoners within 400m of cycle network by 2041

Explore our work in London

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