Government Sets Ambitious Targets for Active Travel Among Children
At least 60% of children in England should be walking or cycling to school within the next decade, according to the government's new active travel plans.
Ministers state that millions more children aged five to 16 will have the opportunity to travel by foot or bike, supported by thousands of safer routes promised through a "record" £4.5 billion investment strategy.
The plans also aim for at least half of all short trips in towns and cities to be walked or cycled by 2035. Additionally, a "national walking and cycling network" will be accessible via route mapping apps within five years.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the strategy's goal to make active travel "a practical choice for millions more journeys."
According to the latest government data from 2023, 47% of children aged five to 16 currently usually walk or cycle to school.
Infrastructure and Training Investments
The Department for Transport (DfT) announced plans to build approximately 5,000 walking, wheeling, and cycling routes and 10,000 "safer" crossings by 2030 to meet the new target. These projects will be delivered in partnership with local authorities and Active Travel England.
Furthermore, £135 million will be allocated to programs that train children to walk and cycle safely to school and assist schools in developing travel plans, although many schools already encourage pupils to avoid car journeys.
Increasing Active Travel for Short Trips
Ministers also aim for 55% of short trips to be active by 2035, which includes segments of journeys such as walking or cycling to public transport. The current level stands at 48%, according to the DfT.
This increase is expected to result in 5.3 million more people being physically active in towns and cities.
National Active Travel Network Development
The strategy outlines plans to develop a national active travel network that is "usable at a national scale," featuring consistent signage and online availability alongside the road network.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated:
"Too many people would like to walk, wheel or cycle more often but don't feel they have safe and convenient options to do so."
"This is about creating healthier communities, helping households keep more money in their pockets and building a transport network that works better for everyone."
Health Secretary James Murray added:
"The plan would help more people build exercise into their everyday lives, improving public health and supporting our ambition to reduce pressure on the NHS."
