Ministers Aim to Boost Active Travel for Children by 2035

Ministers want 60 of children walking – The UK government has unveiled a new initiative targeting a significant increase in the number of children walking or cycling to school by 2035. Under the proposed plan, at least 60% of children aged five to 16 are expected to choose active travel methods, such as walking or cycling, for their daily commutes. This ambitious goal is part of a broader strategy to make active transport a viable and attractive option for millions of journeys across the country. The Department for Transport (DfT) outlined that this effort will be supported by a record £4.5 billion investment, aimed at creating safer infrastructure and encouraging sustainable mobility habits among young people.

The strategy emphasizes not only the expansion of physical routes but also the development of a national walking and cycling network. By 2030, the government plans to construct 5,000 new routes and 10,000 safer crossings, working in collaboration with local authorities and the Active Travel England organization. These improvements will be complemented by £135 million allocated to training programs that teach children how to travel safely on foot or by bike. Additionally, schools will receive support to implement travel plans, though such practices are already common in many institutions. The ultimate aim is to ensure that active travel becomes a standard choice for both parents and pupils, reducing reliance on cars for short trips.

According to the latest data from 2023, 47% of children in England currently walk or cycle to school, indicating a gap between current habits and the proposed target. The government estimates that achieving a 60% share by 2035 could result in over 5.3 million additional people engaging in active travel in urban areas. This shift is expected to have a profound impact on public health, with ministers highlighting the potential to reduce pressure on the National Health Service (NHS) and promote healthier lifestyles. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stressed that the plan seeks to provide safe and convenient options for those who wish to walk, wheel, or cycle more frequently. “Too many people would like to walk, wheel or cycle more often but don’t feel they have safe and convenient options to do so,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure for behavioral change.

“This represents a significant step forward in creating lasting benefits for children and young people,” said Rachel White, policy chief at the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust. The organization praised the initiative for its focus on including secondary school pupils and recognizing cycling as a key component of the strategy.

The government also outlined plans to expand active travel beyond school commutes. By 2035, it aims for 55% of short trips—such as the initial leg of a journey to public transport—to be completed on foot, by bike, or using a wheeled vehicle. This target builds on the current rate of 48%, according to DfT data. The strategy envisions a cohesive national network with consistent signage and online accessibility, making it easier for individuals to navigate walking and cycling routes alongside existing road networks. Such measures are designed to foster a culture of active mobility, aligning with broader environmental goals to reduce carbon emissions.

Supporters of the plan, including the Cycle to Work Alliance, argue that safe infrastructure and affordable access to travel routes are essential for long-term success. “Safe infrastructure and affordable access to such travel routes are needed to change behavior,” the alliance stated, adding that the strategy is a critical step toward achieving both. The DfT also emphasized that the plan will be implemented alongside local authorities, ensuring tailored solutions for different regions. This collaboration is seen as vital for addressing specific challenges, such as urban congestion or rural connectivity, that may hinder progress.

Regional Variations in Active Travel Goals

While the central government’s plan applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have their own separate targets. In Wales, the previous Labour government had set a goal of achieving 45% sustainable travel—primarily walking and cycling—for all journeys by 2040. However, a Senedd committee raised concerns in December 2023 about the slow pace of progress toward that figure. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland has a shorter timeline, with a target to have 20% of trips under one mile cycled by 2025. The region also committed, through its 2022 Climate Change Act, to dedicate 10% of its transport budget to active travel. Despite these efforts, its national audit office reported in September that neither target had been met, underscoring the challenges faced by devolved administrations.

Scotland, on the other hand, has set a specific objective: to make walking and cycling the most popular options for short journeys by 2030. Government data suggests that the current proportion of cyclists for short trips remains around 1-2%, while walking accounts for approximately 50%. While the percentage for walking has stabilized since 2012, the low rate of cycling indicates a need for targeted interventions. The Scottish government’s focus on short trips aligns with the UK-wide goal, but the pace of change may differ due to regional priorities and funding allocations.

The initiative is part of a larger effort to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. By shifting more children and adults to active travel, the government hopes to decrease the number of cars on the road, particularly in densely populated areas. This could lead to lower emissions and a more sustainable transport system. Heidi Alexander also highlighted the economic benefits, noting that active travel can help households save money on fuel and car maintenance. “This is about creating healthier communities, helping households keep more money in their pockets, and building a transport network that works better for everyone,” she added.

Environmental advocates have welcomed the focus on young people, as school journeys are often a starting point for developing lifelong mobility habits. Rachel White from the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust emphasized that the plan’s inclusion of secondary school students is a positive development, as it addresses a broader demographic than primary schools alone. The trust also praised the government for explicitly recognizing cycling as a key mode of transport, which aligns with global trends toward promoting non-motorized travel for health and environmental reasons.

However, challenges remain. The success of the strategy depends on the timely completion of infrastructure projects and the effective implementation of training programs. Local authorities will play a crucial role in adapting the national plan to their specific needs, which may vary from urban centers to rural areas. For example, towns with high population density might prioritize expanding bike lanes, while rural regions could focus on improving paths for walkers. The DfT has pledged to support these efforts, but critics argue that more funding and political will are required to meet the ambitious 2035 targets.

As the strategy moves forward, it will serve as a benchmark for measuring progress in active travel across the UK. The government’s emphasis on integrating these changes into everyday life reflects a growing recognition of the benefits of sustainable mobility. With the national network expected to be accessible via route mapping apps within five years, the plan aims to make active travel as convenient as driving, encouraging a shift in behavior. The long-term impact of these measures could extend beyond transportation, influencing public health, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency in communities across England.

Health Secretary James Murray underscored the plan’s role in promoting physical activity as part of daily routines. “This initiative would help more people build exercise into their everyday lives, improving public health and supporting our ambition to reduce pressure on the NHS,” he stated. The DfT’s focus on schools is seen as a strategic move, as early exposure to active travel can foster habits that persist into adulthood. While the target for children is a significant step, the government also aims to inspire broader participation, including adults who may be hesitant to abandon cars for longer distances.

Overall, the strategy represents a comprehensive approach to reshaping transportation habits. By investing in infrastructure, education, and accessibility, the government hopes to create a future where walking and cycling are not only safer but also more appealing. The 2035 deadline serves as a clear timeframe for evaluating the effectiveness of these measures, with the potential to set a new standard for sustainable mobility in the UK.