Candidates told to pledge support for ‘proper investment in cycling’

Ahead of the General Election, Cycling UK has written to all the main parties’ candidates asking them to make a simple pledge to stand up for cycling and walking if they are elected.

The charity is calling on each candidate to pledge their support for an increase in investment in cycling and walking – to at least 5% of transport spending next year, rising to at least 10% within five years.

Cycling UK says this level of funding is the minimum required for the next Government to meet its targets of doubling cycling journeys in England by 2025, and to achieve similar levels of walking and cycling throughout the UK.

Since 15 November, Cycling UK has contacted 2,164 candidates, of whom 199 have made the pledge.

Cycling UK says funding needs to ‘increase urgently’ to create healthier streets, towns and places which are better for people, communities and businesses.

Paul Tuohy, Cycling UK’s chief executive, said: “We’re breathing toxic air. Too many people are becoming obese or enduring inactivity related ill-health.

“Our roads are congested and vehicle emissions are compounding the climate crisis.

“But the good news is that fixing this isn’t rocket science. We just need proper investment in cycling and walking, to enable more people to move around actively, particularly for short journeys.”

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