Public asked to provide views on cycle-rail travel improvements

The public is being asked for their views as new guidance on improving opportunities for combined cycling and rail travel is in development. 

The Cycle Rail Working Group, which merges expertise from the rail industry and other sustainable transport stakeholders, is asking the public to share their experiences.  

People are being asked to complete an online survey by January 9th to ensure its efficient and simple for passengers to travel by bike and train.  

David Hibbs, Cycle Rail Programme Manager at Sustrans, the UK’s largest walking and cycling charity said: ‘We want to help people to combine the active travel of cycling, which is cheaper and healthier than car use, with rail travel. To get this right, we need to hear from the people who currently travel by cycle and rail, or wish to, so we’re inviting them to share their experiences.’ 

Existing guidance was delivered in 2016, prior to the global pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, and since then call for sustainable travel has only grown.  

Research conducted by Sustrans last year revealed that 64% of Brits would like improved cycling infrastructure, with better links to public transport and secure cycle parking at train stations.  

Active travel can lower emissions and encourage healthier lifestyles, while the industry also generated £36.5bn for the UK economy last year. 

Hibbs continued: ‘It’s high time this guidance was updated because the world has moved on since 2016, but if we’re to make any improvements, we must listen to what people want. The crucial question is really: ‘What would encourage you to cycle to the station?’ as we want to help people leave their cars at home to make local journeys through active means, such as walking, wheeling and of course cycling.’ 

Photo by Victoriano Izquierdo