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Reacting to this morning’s confirmation that Cycling England has been axed, Sustrans has issued a statement urging continued investment in cycling, walking and public transport.
Sustrans said that the Sustainable Transport Fund – recently announced by the Department for Transport, but as yet with no details of size or funding – has to pick up where Cycling England left off.
"Cycling England has been a crucial conduit for funding which has touched the lives of millions of people by making it possible for people to cycle for everyday journeys," stated Malcolm Shepherd, Sustrans chief executive.
“With increasing challenges of health, congestion, carbon reduction and energy security, the low cost solution that cycling offers must be pursued with more vigour than ever. And local authorities must increase their efforts to work with charities and other partners to make it possible for more people to get around by bike."
“The new Local Sustainable Transport Fund must not be a smokescreen for wider cuts to the spending that gets people cycling, walking and using public transport.
"From Sustrans’ own practical work we know that minimal investment can reap huge rewards, for example, every £1 spent on encouraging people to change their travel behaviour brings a benefit of £8. The Fund must ensure that the benefits of Cycling England’s successful work are not lost and smarter travel choices are extended to an increasing number of people.”
