Embracing Active Travel in Our Communities
Good morning, everyone. I appreciate the introduction, Chris [Boardman]. It is a genuine pleasure to be here with so many of you today, on this 22nd of September 2026.
Recently, I’ve found myself in Manchester more often than I anticipated. Perhaps it’s due to the influence of someone like Andy [Burnham], who insists this is the place to be. I am aware that a panel discussion is scheduled for later, so I will keep my opening remarks concise.
Today, I aim to share a few thoughts regarding the rationale behind this government’s commitment to active travel, how we intend to collaborate with you, and what we, collectively, are achieving in this area.
Personal Reflections on Cycling
Let’s begin in Swindon, my hometown, as many great narratives do. My journey into active travel commenced with a blue bicycle equipped with a white basket and sturdy stabilisers – my very first bike at the age of three or four.
It may not come as a surprise that in the 1980s, Swindon, known for its unique magic roundabout, was not particularly conducive to cycling. Nonetheless, that did not deter me.
As a teenager, my bicycle became my gateway to employment, as I undertook two early morning paper rounds on my father’s old road bike, with hefty orange bags tucked under my arms, all before heading to college. I often wish I could conquer those same hills today without needing to pause for breath.
Through cycling, I enjoyed good health and found solace while traversing the Ridgeway during my A-level studies – a route I still frequent, albeit now with the assistance of an electric Brompton. Cycling bestowed upon me a sense of independence, which I believe is at the core of what active travel represents, and it has always brought me joy. That sense of joy remains with me, even now.
Commitment to Integrated Transport
This passion for cycling persisted throughout my twenties when I cycled seven miles across London after moving to the capital for a temporary position, as I could not afford a travel card. It remained with me during my tenure as Deputy Mayor of London, where, alongside Will Norman, I championed the implementation of segregated cycle lanes and reduced speed limits on some of the city’s busiest thoroughfares.
Many people often inquire about my proudest achievements from my time as Deputy Mayor, expecting me to mention the Elizabeth line. However, I take just as much pride in the delivery of segregated cycling infrastructure on Cycleway 4 leading to Greenwich, which now brings joy to countless individuals every day.
My determination to promote active travel remains unwavering. As Transport Secretary, I am fully committed to developing a comprehensive transport network that enhances public transport usage.
Reimagining Everyday Journeys
If we are genuinely committed to providing individuals with the choices and tools necessary to embrace active travel, we must ensure it is no longer an afterthought or an add-on. Walking, wheeling, and cycling should be recognised as essential components of daily journeys – whether it’s the walk to the bus stop, navigating a station platform, or cycling to work, school, or the shops.
This is not about placing one mode of transport in opposition to another; there is no conflict to be had here. You will not find me leading a crusade on behalf of the cycling community. My aim is to offer people greater options in their lives.
I envision a cohesive transport system where each segment of a journey complements the next, accessibility is inherent, and clear, straightforward signage guides everyone – from elite athletes like Chris [Boardman] to casual cyclists like myself – in feeling confident and secure while choosing the more active route.
The Success of the Bee Network
It may sound overly optimistic, but such a vision is achievable. Just look outside here in Manchester, where the city is setting a remarkable standard. I firmly believe that the Bee Network exemplifies the success of devolution.
This is not mere flattery for Chris, its chief architect, or an attempt to gain favour with my new superior, its staunch advocate; it is simply the truth. Originally, the Bee Network was envisioned as the active travel initiative for Greater Manchester, which Andy was so passionate about that he expanded it to encompass the entire transport network.
What we have now is a unified approach to navigating this vibrant city, beginning with a daring vision for active travel. The results speak for themselves: last year alone, there were 700 million active travel trips undertaken. That translates to nearly one walk, wheel, or cycle for every resident on each working day.
Investing in Future Infrastructure
This success is not coincidental; it is the product of intentional planning. The rise in active travel is evident where safe, new routes have been established, such as the Chorlton Cycle Way and along Oxford Road, demonstrating the existing demand for active travel – we merely need to provide the opportunity for individuals to embrace it.
While improved infrastructure is undoubtedly essential, we must also consider where decision-making authority resides. Decisions regarding pavement parking, school streets, and the ability to recognise and address the unique needs of communities are crucial.
These are often the seemingly minor issues that national leaders overlook, yet they are glaringly apparent to many of you. This is why I advocate for local governance to retain these critical levers of power.
Local Leadership in Active Travel
I take great satisfaction in knowing that the spirit of devolution is woven into the latest cycling and walking investment strategy, executed locally by mayors and councils, with support from Active Travel England at the national level.
The vision is straightforward: to provide safe, accessible choices for more people across a wider range of locations. Collectively, billions will be allocated to active travel initiatives by 2030, with the majority of funding devolved to local governments, resulting in unprecedented multi-year funding to fulfil their long-term ambitions.
We must remain ambitious; by 2035, at least 60% of children should be walking or cycling to school, building upon the landmark agreement we have established with mayors to deliver 3,500 miles of footpaths, safer crossings, and cycling lanes.
Transforming the National Cycle Network
To facilitate this, we are supporting local pilot initiatives, including wayfinding, as we strive towards a consistent national Active Travel Network. Today, I am also pleased to announce a £104 million investment aimed at transforming the National Cycle Network, which involves maintaining and expanding the existing 12,000-mile network, repairing bridges, updating signage, and developing new routes in conjunction with the High Speed Two (HS2) project.
Active Travel as a National Vision
In conclusion, I can think of few better methods to realise the Prime Minister’s vision than by wholeheartedly embracing active travel. When Andy speaks of instilling hope in people, I envision the millions of additional journeys we are facilitating by foot, by cycle, or on wheels – journeys that connect us to employment, friends, and the elements that matter most in life.
When he envisions communities where we take pride in our surroundings, I see roads that are less congested and much safer, high streets revitalised, and women and girls feeling a renewed sense of security when walking home alone.
And when he talks about a revitalised Britain, I recognise the reduction in sick days, the gains in productivity, and the alleviation of pressure on the NHS – all stemming from a more active lifestyle.
Ultimately, active travel transcends being merely a mode of transport; it represents a means of connecting individuals with the lives they aspire to lead while cultivating spaces in which we all wish to live. Thus, a discussion surrounding footpaths, intersections, and wayfinding ultimately becomes a reflection of the type of nation we aspire to be.
This is why conferences such as this are so vital. The work you all engage in is of immense importance, and I am resolute in my commitment to collaborate with you in placing active travel at the centre of our transport network.
Thank you, and I wish you an enjoyable remainder of the conference.