British Cycling Seeks £30M Investment for Cycling Infrastructure
British Cycling is appealing to the government for a £30 million investment to further develop a national cycling infrastructure program. The initiative, which has already shown promising results, is expected to save the NHS an additional £13 million. The program, known as the Places to Ride, was launched in 2019 and has successfully supported over 150 cycling facilities across the UK.
One notable example of the program's impact is the Sutton BMX track in south London, which received £9,000 in funding in 2022. British Cycling claims that this single project has generated a social value of £172,000 through health and well-being benefits. The organization, which is the national governing body for cycling, attributes the NHS savings to reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression, as well as fewer GP and A&E visits.
With the upcoming Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes events in the UK in 2027, British Cycling's managing director, Ed Clancy, anticipates a renewed interest in cycling. He believes that now is the ideal time to invest in the sport at the grassroots level. The organization highlights the Sutton BMX track as a testament to the potential of such grants in fostering cycling opportunities across London's diverse boroughs.
Paulus Graham, who conducts sessions at the Sutton track, emphasizes the holistic benefits of cycling, extending beyond physical fitness. He notes that the sport teaches resilience and mental discipline, as exemplified by the regular riders, including eight-year-old Enid, who has been BMXing since she was one. Enid's father, Ben, attests to the transformative impact of the sport on her focus and confidence.
The program has also supported other London projects, such as Core Arts in Hackney (£27,000), Herne Hill Velodrome (£11,420), and Brixton BMX Track (£15,000). British Cycling, in collaboration with Sport England and DCMS, estimates that the additional £30 million investment will enable the creation of 250 new community cycling spaces.
Clancy, a former Team GB Olympian, emphasizes the importance of accessible facilities in urban areas, where beginners, especially children, may be hesitant to ride on the road. He advocates for safe and accessible spaces for cycling, highlighting the potential for a 1 to 6.5 return on investment. The organization invites the public to engage with the program through various media platforms and encourages the submission of story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk.
