Cycling strategy lacks target to ‘close the gender gap’ despite ambitious vision

The updated strategy, titled Active Travel – Active England, sets the direction for how ministers will boost active travel across England, with a focus on short journeys and getting more children cycling to school. Cycling UK says these priorities are encouraging but argues the plan must go further if it is to unlock the full social, economic and environmental benefits of cycling.

Crucially, the charity is highlighting missed opportunities to tackle persistent inequalities in who cycles, alongside the need for clearer action to turn headline commitments into tangible change on the ground. The charity has also published a new report today showing the wide-ranging return on investment cycling infrastructure can deliver, as pressure grows on government to follow through on its pledge to put cycling on a par with other forms of transport.

Sarah Whitebread, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Cycling UK, said: 

The strategy is long-awaited and we’re pleased to see ambitious targets on journeys to school and a continued focus on short journeys. However, it is disappointing not to see a commitment to closing the gender gap in cycling when we know that women make half as many trips by bike as men. Clear measures to address this would make cycling better for everyone.

Our, ‘Getting there with cycling report’, published this week, sets out the huge benefits investing in cycling infrastructure brings. The government has already committed to putting cycling on an equal footing with other transport options. It will now be for government and local authorities across the country to make that ambition a reality.