🚴‍♀️ Petition: Expand Safe Bike Paths Across the UK

To: UK Government, Department for Transport, Active Travel England, Local Councils

We, the undersigned, call on the UK government and local authorities to urgently expand and improve cycling infrastructure across the country. While we welcome current initiatives—such as the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy and funding through Active Travel England—they are not yet sufficient to meet the scale of need.

Why This Matters

- Health & Wellbeing: Cycling reduces obesity, improves mental health, and lowers NHS costs. It’s a simple, effective way to build movement into daily life.

- Climate Action: Bike paths help cut emissions and reduce traffic congestion, supporting the UK’s Net Zero goals.

- Safety & Inclusion: Many current routes are unsafe or inaccessible—especially for children, disabled individuals, and neurodiverse people. Everyone deserves safe ways to travel.

- Economic Relief for Families: With rising transport costs, safe cycling routes offer a low-cost alternative to driving or public transport. For many families, especially those facing financial hardship, cycling can be the difference between isolation and independence.

- Local Growth: Active travel boosts local economies and reduces transport costs for families.

What We’re Asking For

- A national commitment to build and upgrade bike paths in every town and city—not just pilot areas.

- Funding for School Streets and safe routes to school in every region.

- Inclusive design that supports diverse needs, including sensory sensitivities and mobility challenges.

- Community involvement in planning and consultation, especially from families and schools.

Evidence from Europe

- 🇧🇪 Belgium: A 2022 study found that cycling reduces cardiovascular disease, improves air quality, and boosts local economies through increased activity and reduced car use.

- 🇪🇺 PASTA Project: In cities like Antwerp, Barcelona, and London, expanding cycling networks led to measurable reductions in mortality and increased physical activity.

- 🇪🇺 European Journal of Public Health: A systematic review confirmed that dedicated cycle paths—especially near schools and green spaces—are among the most effective public health interventions.

These studies show that cycling infrastructure isn’t just a transport upgrade—it’s a health and economic investment.

A Personal Note

As a parent of a neurodiverse child, I’ve seen how safe cycling routes can transform daily life—reducing anxiety, fostering independence, and improving wellbeing. Families across the UK need infrastructure that makes active travel not just possible, but safe and inviting.

We urge the government to build on its existing commitments and deliver a truly inclusive, nationwide cycling network.

Sign the petition. Share your story. Be part of the change.