Active Travel: Sustrans Modelling

Transport – in the House of Commons at on 10 October 2024.

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Photo of Seamus Logan Seamus Logan Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Health and Social Care), Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

If she will have discussions with Sustrans on the potential role of its tool for modelling and forecasting cycling levels in the promotion of active travel.

Photo of Simon Lightwood Simon Lightwood Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

So many questions! As the executive agency responsible for walking, wheeling and cycling, Active Travel England is investigating how to improve the modelling and forecasting of cycling levels to ensure that we invest appropriately. I have asked its officers to meet Sustrans colleagues to discuss the potential benefits of its tool.

Photo of Seamus Logan Seamus Logan Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Health and Social Care), Shadow SNP Spokesperson (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The brilliant cycle to work scheme runs across the four nations of these islands, but under current rules, it cannot be used by people who earn less than £17,000 a year. This almost certainly contributes to the fact that only 30% of people on lower incomes have access to a cycle, compared with 59% of people on higher incomes—that is almost double. Various solutions have been proposed, including the Sustrans suggestion of a voucher giving 40% off the cost of a bike. Can the Minister do anything to address this unfair situation, and to help our national Governments support people on lower incomes who would like to be able to take advantage of the cycle to work scheme?

Photo of Simon Lightwood Simon Lightwood Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

I recognise the problems with the scheme, and I will work closely with Treasury colleagues on this matter. I was delighted to attend the launch of the Sustrans report in the Palace a couple of weeks ago, and I will pay careful attention to its recommendations.

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