Culture wars must not overshadow cycling’s positive impact, says charity

Cycling UK has launched a five-year strategy in a bid to persuade policymakers to introduce cycling-friendly policies and investment. The charity has also released a short film that highlights the positive impact cycling can have on communities.

Studies have shown that for every £1 of investment in cycling, there is nearly £6 in benefits, according to Cycling UK. Research has shown that 77% agree that it would be better if more people cycled while 65% want roads changed to protect cyclists and pedestrians from cars, it adds.

Cycling UK’s five-year strategic objectives are:

1.         Improve perceptions of cycling so that everyone sees the benefits

2.         Boost the number and diversity of people who cycle

3.         Make cycling an even more positive experience

4.         Increase transport choice by enabling and encouraging more people to cycle local journeys

5.         Achieve greater impact by becoming the best possible charity we can be

 

Sarah Mitchell, chief executive of Cycling UK, said: “The next five years is a pivotal time for us to demonstrate the wider benefits of cycling. As some politicians have sought to reframe cycling as a culture war issue over the past year, using rhetoric to divide all road users, we are acutely aware of our responsibility to remind people of the overwhelming positive impact of cycling.

“We already know cycling is a fantastic transport option for millions of people across the UK, and we want even more people to see how it can improve public health, boost wellbeing and enhance our environment.”

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