Scottish Government announces record active travel funding

The Scottish Government has outlined the next ‘big steps’ in its commitment to put active travel at the heart of transport policy, including record funding for 2022/23.

The funding, designed to help make walking, wheeling and cycling the natural choice for shorter everyday journeys, was announced by Scotland’s minister for active travel, Patrick Harvie, during a Scottish Parliament debate. 

The steps include:

• Increasing the Cycling Walking and Safer Routes budget, which goes directly to local authorities, from nearly £24 million to £35 million for 2022/23
• More than doubling funding for the National Cycle Network to over £10 million for 2022/23
• Continuing to pilot the provision of free bikes for all children of school age who cannot afford them – having already committed £2.5 million to 10 pilot projects that are underway and which will benefit up to 3,000 children
• Launching a new £1.5 million walking fund, managed by Paths for All  and named in memory of Ian Findlay

The funding also includes the allocation of more than £300,000 to develop a National Dashcam Safety Portal with Police Scotland – making it easier to report crimes that put other road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians, in danger.

Patrick Harvie said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Government is investing a record sum of £150 million for active travel in 2022/23 and have committed to investing at least £320 million or 10% of the transport budget for active travel by 2024/25.”

“What matters now is for that record investment to deliver on the ground, with exciting new ideas for footpaths and cycleways, increased safety, provision of bikes where cost is a barrier and making sure that more people feel confident to choose to walk, wheel or cycle – and so much more.

“I look forward to seeing that new investment translated into projects, but I am especially pleased that the Scottish Government will fund a new programme in memory of Ian Findlay, the Chief Officer of Paths for All who sadly died last year. 

“The new fund, delivered through Paths For All will provide over £1.5 million to remove barriers on the existing path network. 

“It will ensure our paths are more resilient to climate change and increased use, building on Ian’s proud legacy and contributions to everyday walking across Scotland.

“Through the wide ranging actions outlined, we’ll continue to help build an active nation – essential to our health and to our green recovery – where more people can walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys than ever before.”

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