Cycle to Work Alliance appoints Steve Edgell as new chair
Steve Edgell of Cycle Solutions will become the new chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance, just after its 25th anniversary. Edgell will take over from Chris Last who has been in his position since 2023.
Steve Edgell said: “It’s an honour to take on the role of Chair following such a monumental year for the Scheme and Alliance. Over the past 25 years, the Scheme has empowered millions of people to experience the life-changing benefits of cycling.
Edgell will work with all members of the alliance including Halfords, Evans, Perkbox, Vivup, Cycle Scheme, and Cycle Solutions as well as industry partners and policymakers. The aim will be to maximise the reach of the scheme and expand access to cycling.
Edgell added: “My focus will be to build on this success – working closely with our partners, Government, and the wider cycling community to break down barriers to access, improve safety, and champion cycling as a sustainable, healthy, and cost-effective way to commute.”
The benefits of cycling to work can be felt in health, the environment, and the economy. Edgell will continue ongoing engagement with Government and lobby groups to push active travel, pushing schemes to benefit all.
Over two million employees now have access to a bike thanks to the cycle to work scheme. Last oversaw the launch of Alliance’s manifesto for cycling commuting. The report outlined strategic proposals which aim to provide access to 80% of UK workers who are yet to benefit from the scheme.
In the report, the Alliance’s recent YouGov poll found the economic contributions of the scheme was driving growth and travel decarbonisation helped the environment. It also increased the physical and mental health of participants and indicated support for expanding the scheme to ensure other people get access.
Chris Last said: “It has been a privilege to have served as Chair since 2023. I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made for the industry and I’m confident that under Steve’s leadership, the Alliance will continue to break new ground, make cycling accessible to even more people and drive the active travel agenda forward.”
This comes after the organisation released its manifesto, stating cycle to work is at a ‘critical point‘.
