The Route Forward

Across the UK, a growing body of evidence demonstrates that creating high-quality cycling infrastructure is the most effective way to increase cycling levels, and realise the many co-benefits, including for public health, air quality and local economies. Yet despite this evidence and policy commitments in all four nations of the UK, barriers to building more cycle routes persist and cycling rates remain below their potential. This inertia exacerbates suppressed demand where many people who want to cycle do not because they feel unsafe cycling on roads dominated by motor traffic. This report draws on eleven case studies from across the UK’s four nations and shows that where safe, protected and well-connected cycling infrastructure is provided, people respond by cycling more. But more than that, these exemplars of first-class routes for safe cycling also make places more attractive, improve people’s lives and the local environment, and will be popular. The aim is for councils and politicians to see and be inspired by what is possible, and give them belief and confidence that similar benefits can be achieved in their own areas and for their communities. Access the full report at: www.cyclinguk.org/route-forward