British cycling leaders calls for £30m investment in community facilities

A group of cycling leaders and local authority representatives has written an open letter to the Prime Minister, calling for the government to invest £30 million in community cycling facilities.

The proposed £30 million investment would support the development of safe and accessible cycling facilities, with the aim of helping people improve their health and access an affordable form of transport. It would also accelerate plans to ensure the benefits of the Tour de France Grand Départs are felt long after the race has left British roads.

The call builds on the success of the original Places to Ride programme. Backed by £15 million of government funding between 2019 and 2024, the programme supported more than 150 projects across England, generating almost £268 million in social value and an estimated £32.9 million in NHS savings.

The programme also demonstrated its ability to reach underserved communities, with 83% of projects focused on children and young people, 41% targeting women and girls, 35% supporting people on lower incomes and 41% engaging disabled people or those living with long-term health conditions.

In Scotland, investment linked to the legacy of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships has already supported 50 facilities, generating more than £48 million in social value and unlocking significant additional investment.

The call comes as Britain prepares to host the men’s and women’s Grand Départs in 2027, becoming the first nation outside France to host both events. The open letter was signed by leaders from British Cycling, Grand Départ GB 2027, Scottish Cycling and Beicio Cymru, as well as representatives of key start and finish host locations for the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départs.

“The Tour de France Grand Départs in 2027 represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to inspire millions of people and showcase Britain to the world,” said Lee Gibbons, Interim Group Chief Executive of British Cycling. “We want to ensure the legacy extends far beyond the race itself. Investment in safe and accessible places to ride would help more people enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits of cycling while creating healthier and more connected communities.”