Gnomes appear in Transpennine Trail's Magic Wood

27 September 2018

Two friendly gnomes are the latest fantastical creatures which have appeared along a section of the Transpennine Trail maintained by Sustrans volunteers in Yorkshire.

Sleepy John and Clumbsy were christened by local children Ruby Waite, Daisy Perry and Lily Burns, who won our competition to name the new additions to the ‘Magic Wood’ in The Dell, which is halfway between Bullhouse Bridge and Hazlehead.

Woodcarver Stephen Tarr created the gnomes from the stumps of two goat willows which volunteers felled to improve the soil and open up the view.

Kate Dobson, our volunteer coordinator for the Penistone to Dunford Bridge section of the Transpennine Trail said:

“We’re delighted to have names for the gnomes now and that so many more children know about them and the Dell. We hope it encourages them - and their parents - to get out here and explore! There’s now a gorgeous view from the bench and a big increase of sunlight to help wildflowers.”

Visitors to the Dell can step inside a mystical world of fairy doors, eyes on trees, money trees and an upside-down tree.

The Transpennine Trail is one our most popular coast to coast routes, and runs 215km from Southport to Hornsea.

There are many traffic-free sections, including the picturesque former railway line from Penistone to Dunford Bridge.

Find out more about volunteering with Sustrans

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Our response to the cycle registration scheme at Stanley Park High in Carshalton

25 September 2018

Commenting on a new registration scheme which will force pupils at Stanley Park High in Carshalton, South London, to use number plates when cycling to and from school, Chris Bennett Sustrans Head of Behaviour Change said:

“The UK is currently facing a public health crisis for young people, both in terms of obesity and air pollution. Active travel to school is part of the solution for both of these issues and we need to be taking radical steps to make it easier for children to cycle, not more difficult. One way to do this is by incorporating active travel within schools’ curriculum and wider culture.

“We understand the importance of ensuring that pupils travel to school in a responsible and safe manner but believe introducing number plates will deter children from travelling actively. Instead, we need to teach them how to follow the Highway Code, signal, remain visible and take up good road positioning. In addition, providing safe, direct and high quality routes and networks, especially segregated cycle paths will encourage more journeys by bike and foot and ensure the safety of school children across the UK.”

For more information and 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

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Disability writer David Reilly conquers 237 mile iconic Scottish cycle route

25 September 2018

Disability writer David Reilly is celebrating after conquering an iconic 237 mile cycle route in Scotland, to help raise awareness of accessibility along the National Cycle Network.

Reilly, who was born with Cerebral Palsy, was greeted by Depute Provost and Leader of Inverness Area Councillor Graham Ross and Chair of Inverness Access Panel Lachie Smith at the end of The Caledonia Way, National Cycle Network Route 78.  With support from Sustrans Scotland David battled against Storm Ali to take part in the 10-day long challenge ride.

As part of his journey, travelled the length of Scotland, from Campbeltown to Inverness, to challenge perceptions about disability participation in cycling.

An amazing achievement ​

Speaking about his achievement, Reilly said:

“As a disability sports writer, I work to improve opportunities for disabled people to take part and participate in outdoor sports.

“Inclusion and access are issues very close to my heart and I’m delighted to be working with Sustrans on this project. The Caledonia Way is an iconic route through the heart of some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery.”

Councillor Graham Ross said:

“I really admire David for what he has acheived. It shows that people with disabilities can take part fully in life. He is a really remarkable man. I hope his journey and what he has acheived will inspire and encourage others to take part in similar adventures.”

Lachie Smith, Chairman at Inverness Access Panel said:

“It’s amazing. David is a hugely positive example for disability inclusion and a great role model. It just goes to show what can be achieved by anyone. He is an inspiration.”

National Cycle Network review

David’s ride comes as we near the completion of a year and a half long audit of National Cycle Network routes across the UK. The results of the National Cycle Network review, which are set for publication in November 2018, will help the national walking and cycling charity to create a network of safe, accessible and high-quality routes and paths that will make walking and cycling easier and safer for everyone.

And, as part of his ride Reilly stopped in Oban to speak to a representative from Oban Disability Access Panel and Sustrans Scotland Network Engagement Manager, Nail Shannon about some of the challenges faced in making the National Cycle Network more accessible and inclusive to all.

Sustrans Scotland Head of Network Development, Tom Bishop said:

“We are really proud of David and what he has achieved by cycling all 237 miles of the Caledonia Way – especially with all the challenges he has faced, from the weather to the difficulty of some of the sections of the route.

“As the National Cycle Network has grown over the years, we recognise that its quality has varied and that this has resulted in an inconsistent experience for the people who use it. We need to make it better, which is why we are undertaking a UK-wide review of the National Cycle Network.

“As a leading disability writer, David’s unique experience of cycling the Caledonia Way, and the conversations it has inspired, will help us to understand what is required to make all of our National Cycle Network routes accessible and inclusive to all.”

Find out more about the Caledonia Way and plan your own adventure

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Hundreds of Sustrans volunteers celebrate at Festivol in Bristol

24 September 2018

Volunteers from across the UK arrived in Bristol for a special celebration that took place on Friday 14 September to Sunday 16 September.

Held over three days at locations across Bristol, Festivol is a special celebration to thank volunteers for their time, contribution and commitment to us.

We have over 3,500 people across the UK who regularly volunteer for us. Volunteers give their time to help with everything from supporting children to cycle and scoot, to maintaining the National Cycle Network - 16,000 miles of path that is enjoyed by approximately five million people every year.

A celebration and inspiration

Katie Aartse-Tuyn, Sustrans Volunteer Programme Manager said Festivol was a celebration and an inspiration, bringing together Sustrans volunteers, staff and supporters from across the UK. She said:

“Everyone got involved in learning and sharing skills, supporting mass volunteering activities along the Bristol and Bath railway path and listening to inspiring presentations from the past and future vision of Sustrans.

“I certainly left the event feeling re-invigorated and inspired by the energy, enthusiasm and action carried out by those who support us.“

Volunteers are what makes Sustrans special

Xavier Brice said volunteers were at the heart of the work that we do.

“Our volunteers are what make Sustrans special. Their passion and dedication to making it easier for people to walk and cycle is vital in helping us to achieve our vision of happier, healthier communities and a better environment for us all.”

The iconic Bristol and Bath Railway path changes lives

James Cleeton, Director of Sustrans England South added that Festivol is a celebration of the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, and the efforts of our volunteers to build it, maintain it and secure its future. He said:

“Our volunteers maintain large amounts of the of the National Cycle Network, but no other route is as iconic as the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

"As our original project it has literally changed the direction of millions of people’s lives.

“It was a delight to spend time with nearly 60 volunteers, some of who were local but the majority came from all over the UK to take part in the mass workday.

"I spent several hours working with Roger from Redditch and Dan from Abergavenny clearing grass, soil and litter from the entrance to the Staple Hill tunnel.”

The One Path Initiative

Last month we launched the One Path initiative on the Bristol and Bath Railway Path to help raise awareness of rising conflict on the path and encouraging positive behaviour.

James Cleeton added:

“We are committed to a Bristol and Bath Railway Path that is a safe space: a park, path and place for all users, by foot or by wheel, enabling healthy lifestyles in a green and biodiverse corridor linking the two cities and communities across the West of England Combined Authority.”

Would you like to volunteer with us? Find out more about volunteering with Sustrans

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Record numbers attend Cycle Sunday in Bristol

21 September 2018

Over 3,000 people enjoyed traffic-free cycling in Bristol at the weekend – a record number for the event that haa been established since 2015.

Cycle Sunday showcases traffic-free cycling infrastructure for people of all ages and abilities, and is an opportunity for those new to cycling to try out their skills and improve their confidence in a supportive and fun and safe environment.

Held on Sunday 16 September on the picturesque Clifton Downs in Bristol, the event is organised by us in collaboration with local community groups and was supported by leading Bristol law firm, Barcan+Kirby.

This is the first year the event has featured a circular route, which proved very popular with participants who were keen to see more regular traffic-free days on the Downs.

More demand for traffic-free days in Bristol

Esther DeAngelis a local resident who regularly attends the event said she felt this year was bigger and more diverse. She said:

“It’s drawn in families from all over Bristol – it’s so important for everyone to get an opportunity like this, to cycle along these beautiful roads safely and with no traffic. It’s so enjoyable, I really don’t know why we can’t do this more often.”

We need to reduce reliance on getting to places by car

The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cleo Lake, who attend the family-friendly Cycle Sunday event said she was keen to see more access to the area by bike. She said:

“As Lord Mayor, one of my roles is to chair the Downs Committee which manages the Downs.

“I am keen to see more access to the Downs by bicycle and in particular to create opportunities for people from all over Bristol to enjoy this beautiful place. 

“It was great to see people of all ages and abilities cycling on a car-free route around Circular Road and Ladies Mile. In particular, Cycle Sunday enables children to have more freedom and get to the "hard to reach” parts of the Downs!  

“We need to reduce reliance on getting to places by car. My hope is that one day, people will be able to get the bus to the Downs, hire a bike by the Water Tower and explore the Downs safely on two wheels rather than four.“

Walking and cycling is good for our health and mental well-being

James Cleeton, Sustrans England South Director said:

“Cycle Sunday was a great opportunity for communities across Bristol to come together and enjoy waking and cycling in a traffic-free, safe environment. We are all well aware of how good walking and cycling is for us, and at Sustrans we think it’s important to hold regular events like Cycle Sunday which encourage and enable all communities and abilities to enjoy walking and cycling in the outdoors.”

Find out more about how you can use your car less for more everyday journeys

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Sustrans comments on RAC report

21 September 2018

Commenting on the report from RAC, which reveals that one in three motorists are more reliant on their cars than they were 12 months ago, Xavier Brice, CEO for Sustrans, the walking and cycling charity said:

“With the UK’s air pollution a daily headline, there has never been a more important time to shift short journeys away from cars towards healthy, clean alternatives such as getting around by foot or on bike.

“One in four car trips are under two miles – a distance that can be walked or cycled.

“The research by RAC is a reminder to governments at all levels to take urgent action and prioritise the development of safe and high quality walking and cycling routes, alongside engagement programmes, to enable more people to walk and cycle.”

For more information and 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

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Fallowfield Loopline and local community celebrated at FloopFest

19 September 2018
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Around 50 bike-riding bees made a buzz at Manchester’s first ‘FloopFest’ last weekend to celebrate the Fallowfield Loopline and gather views to help improve the popular walking, scooting and cycling path.

An online survey is still live for contributions relating to the festival until 30 September.

There was live music, local food and drink, as well as nature, community and arts and crafts activities along the six mile path. Two of the best dressed bees on the Bee Ride won a Micro-Sprite Scooter plus accessories.

The Fallowfield Loopline is Manchester’s most popular urban traffic-free cycle way (known affectionately as the Floop), with around 65,000 users a year, and is now part of Chris Boardman’s Beelines Plan.

Rosslyn Colderley, our Director in the North of England said:

“Floopfest celebrated the Fallowfield Loopline and the surrounding local community, and was a chance for us to gather views about how people use the Floop and what improvements they would like to see. It was a fantastic atmosphere with brilliant live music, local food and drink, bees on bikes, arts and crafts and community activities. Thanks to everyone who came, dressed up, took part or gave their views. If you haven’t filled out a questionnaire about the Fallowfield Loop please contribute to our online survey.”

The Fallowfield Loopline is six miles long and runs from Chorlton to Debdale. The route, which we own and manage, is part of Chris Boardman’s new Beelines plan launched in June, to create 1,000 miles of cycle and walking routes in Greater Manchester. The former railway line closed in 1988 and was created into a cycle route in 2001.

FloopFest was funded by PukkaTea and MicroScooters provided prizes for winning Bee Riders.

Please contribute your views by taking part in the Floop Fest Survey

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Hadrian’s Cycleway wins £48,000 for improvements

14 September 2018
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We are delighted to have won £48,362 from Solway, Border and Eden LEADER to improve the popular Hadrian’s Cycleway in Cumbria for tourists and local people.

Over 160,000 people a year use the 174 mile (National Cycle Network route 72) cycle and walking route, which runs from the Roman Bath House at Ravenglass to the Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum at South Shields. It traverses through spectacular landscapes including the Solway Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and passes some of Britain’s most iconic historic buildings, such as Abbey Town Holme Cultram Abbey, Birdoswald Roman Fort or the Augustinian Lanercrost priory.

The new funding will allow our team to install new signs to link people cycling the route to nearby attractions, as well as interpretation boards about the area’s history and natural beauty. Local officers will also work with businesses along Hadrian’s Cycleway to help promote the route to wider audiences.

Claire Kerrin, our Network Development Manager in the North East said:

“Hadrian’s Cycleway attracts thousands of visitors on bicycles each year but not all of them are aware of the attractions along the way. We will work with businesses, attractions and the local community to market their products and services directly to people traveling through the area on bikes, and help boost the local economy.”

Chris Edwards, LEADER Programme Manager said:

“The Solway, Border & Eden Local Action Group are delighted to support the rejuvenation of the Hadrian’s Cycleway.  The planned improvements will support rural business along the cycleway which in turn will boost the local economy.”

Our research shows that improved marketing of Hadrian’s Cycleway could help generate an extra 39,000 visitors to Cumbria over the next three years.

Find out more about Hadrian’s Cycleway

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Disability writer David Reilly sets out to cycle the Caledonia Way

14 September 2018

Disability writer David Reilly will cycle the Caledonia Way to help raise awareness of accessibility along the National Cycle Network, setting off on Sunday 16 September. 

Reilly, who was born with Cerebral Palsy, will undertake the 10 day long Caledonia Way Challenge Ride with support from Sustrans Scotland.

He hopes his journey, which will see him travelling the length of Scotland, from Campbeltown to Inverness, will help to challenge perceptions about disability participation in cycling.

As part of his ride David will stop off in Oban to speak to Sustrans Scotland Network Engagement Manager, Niall Shannon, about some of the challenges faced in making the National Cycle Network more accessible and inclusive to all.

Speaking about his upcoming journey David said:

“As a disability sports writer, I work to improve opportunities for disabled people to take part and participate in outdoor sports.

“Inclusion and access are issues very close to my heart and I’m delighted to be working with Sustrans on this project. The Caledonia Way is an iconic route through the heart of some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery and I’m really looking forward to riding it.

“I don’t underestimate the challenge however, 237 miles lie between Campeltown and Inverness which is a really big push for me. I really look forward to completing the project.“

The National Cycle Network review 

David’s ride comes as Sustrans nears the completion of a year and a half long audit of National Cycle Network Routes across the UK. The results of the National Cycle Netowrk review, which are set for publication in November 2018, will help us to create a network of safe, accessible and high-quality routes and paths that will make walking and cycling easier and safer for everyone.

Sustrans Scotland Head of Network Development, Tom Bishop said:

“We are really excited that David is to set out and ride the length of the iconic Caledonia Way.

“As the National Cycle Network has grown over the years, we recognise that its quality has varied and that this has resulted in an inconsistent experience for the people who use it. We need to make it better, which is why we are undertaking a UK-wide review of the National Cycle Network.

“As a leading disability writer, David’s unique experience of cycling the Caledonia Way, and the conversations we hope it will inspire, will help us to understand what is required to make all of our National Cycle Network routes accessible and inclusive to all.”

Find out more about the Caledonia Way and plan your own adventure

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Northern Ireland public want better walking and cycling infrastructure

13 September 2018
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We are calling for the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to focus much more on improving walking and cycling infrastructure in Northern Ireland following the results of a public satisfaction survey.

The Continuous Household Survey 2017/18 asked for the first time the public’s views on satisfaction with public transport, walking and cycling in Northern Ireland.

Public transport scored well with 72% satisfied with public transport provision in their area but satisfaction with walking and cycling was much lower.

Just 55% of respondents said they were satisfied with the current situation for cycling and cyclists in their local area and over a third of people (36%) were not satisfied with the situation for walking in their areas.

“ The results of this survey send a clear message that people want to walk and cycle but poor infrastructure and too much traffic, going too fast, is putting them off. ”

- Gordon Clarke, Sustrans Northern Ireland Director

The main reason why people weren’t satisfied with cycling were lack of cycle lanes (69%), ‘Too much traffic’ (42%) and 'Traffic goes too fast’ (41%). This tallies with similar findings in the Belfast Bike Life 2017 survey which found that 65% of people would find protected cycle lanes useful to help them cycle.

The main reasons why people were discouraged from cycling were 'Don’t own/have access to a bicycle’ (54%), 'Too much traffic/too dangerous’ ’ (27%) and 'Motorists driving without consideration of cyclists’ (21%).

Sustrans has been working with the PSNI ‘See the Cyclist’ campaign to highlight the recommended safe distance of 1.5 metres that motorists should pass cyclists on the road.

Gordon Clarke, Sustrans Northern Ireland Director said: “The results of this survey send a clear message that people want to walk and cycle but poor infrastructure and too much traffic, going too fast, is putting them off. We have been calling for the Department to implement the Belfast Bicycle Network plan and provide similar protected cycle lanes for cities, towns and villages across Northern Ireland.

“It is encouraging that 17% of respondents to the survey said they would be likely to cycle any journeys of up to three miles. This would go a long way to tackle congestion in our cities, as the annual Travel Survey shows, in Belfast, almost half the journeys we make are less than two miles.

“We also need to ensure our footpaths are suitable and well-lit to encourage people to walk more. Increasing the number of active travel journeys is a Draft Programme for Government priority and doing so will improve the public’s health, the environment and liveability of our towns and residential areas.”

We have been calling for:

£20 million to be allocated to build the Belfast Bicycle Network within a five year programme. continued support for behavioural change programmes in schools, workplaces and communities to enable more people to travel actively. all Primary 5 pupils to receive on-road cycle training. Find out more about our policy work in Northern Ireland

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