Thank you for contacting me about investment into active transport.

As well as being greener, active travel helps to reduce pressure on public transport and the road network.

The Government has already invested over £850 million in active travel between 2020/21 and 2022/23. It has also committed to spending at least a further £100 million capital into active travel over the remainder of the spending period, as part of a total £3 billion investment in active travel over the course of this Parliament.

Further, the newest version of the Highway Code introduces a ‘hierarchy of road users’, a concept whereby the road users able to do the greatest harm are bestowed the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger or threat they may pose to other road users. The hierarchy is designed to bring about a more mutually respectful and considerate culture of safe and effective road use that benefits all users. At the top of the hierarchy is pedestrians (in particular children) older adults and disabled people, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. The government hopes that this measure will encourage people to undertake more active forms of travel.

I know Ministers are keen to encourage people to take up cycling and walking, and share your desire to see continued investment in this area.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.