BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
TfL has released a pack that outlines the economic benefits of encouraging more walking and cycling in cities.
It is aimed at policymakers, local communities, officers in local and national Government, business networks and others who are interested in how investment in walking and cycling can create more ‘prosperous’ cities.
The pack was produced by TfL as part of an ongoing collaboration with partners across London and has been published as part of its online hub for the economic benefits of walking and cycling.
It said it is grateful to representatives from the DfT, the University of Westminister, GlaxoSmithKline, the London boroughs of Enfield, Hackney and Southwark, the BA, Sustrans, the London Cycling Campaign, Cycling UK and Living Streets for their support in developing this evidence base.
Investment in walking and cycling helps encourage more Londoners to travel in a greener and healthier way. It also brings benefits for the economy:
– Walking and cycling improvements can increase retail spend by up to 30%
– People who are physically active take 27% fewer sick days each year than their colleagues
– Businesses see walking and cycling as key to attracting and retaining the staff they need to thrive
– New cycle lanes in London have helped some streets carry up to 5% more people at the busiest times
– Investing in walking and cycling can prevent billions of pounds worth of health and environmental damage
– Active travel is accessible and inclusive – making it easier to walk and cycle means that more Londoners can enjoy the benefits
