Active travel in Liverpool City Region saves over £50m per year according to new report
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
Walking, wheeling and cycling across the Liverpool City Region are saving the NHS £53.8 million every year, according to the latest Walking and Cycling Index, with cycling playing a key role in improving public health and reducing demand on services.
The report, produced by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust in partnership with Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, estimates that active travel prevents more than 4,400 serious long-term health conditions annually.
Cycling in particular is highlighted as a major contributor, with investment in infrastructure and training helping to embed it as a viable everyday transport option, supported by more than 150km of new or improved routes since 2019 and further expansion underway.
The Index also shows that 52% of residents walk or wheel at least five times a week, while 77% support having everyday amenities such as shops, schools and green spaces within a short walk, wheel or cycle of home.
Despite this progress, safety remains a barrier, with only 39% of residents saying they feel safe cycling compared to significantly higher confidence levels for walking or driving, suggesting further improvements are needed to unlock more cycling trips.
Public appetite for change is clear according to the index, with 78% supporting more off-road cycling and walking routes and many residents expressing a desire to cycle more if conditions were safer and more accessible.
Personal stories in the report underline cycling’s impact, including that of Stephen Rice, who uses an e-bike following a spinal injury. He said: “It keeps me strong and supports my mental health. I travel on the Mersey Ferry and the train – taking my bike wherever I go, allowing me to make friends and explore, even with my dog in a trailer. It’s my way of walking and staying independent. I hope things continue to improve for the disabled community and the safety of all.”
Jonah Morris, Growth and Partnerships Manager at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said: “Liverpool City Region is already a city where walking, wheeling and cycling are becoming part of everyday life, and this new report shows the difference they make to the people that live here.
“It shows strong public support for neighbourhoods designed around everyday journeys that can be made easily on foot, with a wheelchair or by bike, whilst highlighting some concerns around safety and infrastructure.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said the findings show “the huge difference that everyday active travel is already making” as the region continues investing in safer, more accessible cycling and walking networks, noting that nearly half of car journeys in the region are under 5km.
Walking and Cycling Commissioner Simon O’Brien added that the report highlights both the progress made and “how much potential there still is” to grow cycling and active travel across the region.
The Index forms part of a wider effort to provide evidence for future transport planning, with a clear focus on making cycling a first choice for short journeys.
Read the full report: www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk/walking-cycling-index/liverpool-city-region