Think!

The facts
Millions of people use bicycles every day as their main form of transport, and local authorities across the country are increasingly working to develop local cycling strategies and cycle networks.

More cyclists means fewer cars on the road and helps to meet broader Government objectives on health, physical activity, tackling obesity and providing a cleaner environment.

Government support for cycling
In 2005 the Government created Cycling England, which works with local authorities and other partners like Sustrans to promote cycling.

In January 2008 the Government also announced a record £140 million investment in cycling to be invested by 2012. The money will be used to promote safe cycling for children and to encourage a new generation of adults to rediscover their bikes. 

The six-fold increase in funding will:

• allow 500,000 10-year-olds (year 6 pupils) across England to take part in Bikeability cycle training by 2012, equipping them with the skills to cycle safely and responsibly
• build another 250 Safe Links to Schools, connecting around 500 more schools to the National Cycle Network
• create up to 10 more Cycling Demonstration Towns in England, as well as the first large Demonstration City, giving nearly 3 million people the chance to benefit from best practice and promotion of cycling