“Cycle to work is at a critical juncture”: C2W Alliance unveils manifesto
There’s been no shortage of discussion about the future of the cycle to work initiative of late from the cycle trade, and now the Cycle to Work Alliance (C2W Alliance) has laid out a four-point manifesto for its future.
The C2W Alliance, comprising the largest operators in that market, is calling for changes in the initiative and outside it, repeating some hitherto points that have been pin pointed in recent months. They include:
- Enhanced Safety Measures: Urging the Department for Transport to include the needs of cyclists in its new Road Safety Review.
- Improved Infrastructure: Advocating for long-term funding to build safe and accessible cycling routes.
- Expanded Scheme Access: Encouraging policy changes to include low-income earners and the self-employed in the Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Support for eBikes: Promoting the use of eBikes as a key solution for older and long-distance commuters, while countering misconceptions about their safety.
One of the most contentious points of cycle to work for the industry has been the burden of the scheme – as it is currently administered – that falls upon independent cycle retailers. Perhaps naturally, this isn’t a point picked up by the manifesto, but CIN has been told by various independent bike shops (one of which is quoted in the most recent issue of CIN – Issue #5 2024) that C2W continues to drive a lot of business – reflecting C2W Alliance stats.
Exclusive YouGov polling has supported the manifesto recommendations, some of which have also been highlighted in CIN Market Data (and elsewhere) over the year, including infrastructure and safety seen as vital areas to convert people into regular cyclists.
YouGov polling found:
- Safety and infrastructure concerns continue to prevent people from cycling: 45% of potential cyclists are deterred from commuting by bike due to concerns about safety with twice as many women than men fear cycling to work.
- There continues to be a cycling gender gap: Almost three times as many men (74%) cycle to work than women (26%).
- Age: Cycling to work uptake is similar across most age groups, making it a commute for everyone.
- The number of cycle commuters varies by region: London (27%) and the North of England (20%) are home to the highest number of people who cycle to work. Wales is home to the lowest (0.9%).
- Accessibility: there is room for smaller businesses (10-49 employees) to offer the scheme to employees as 31% said they do not currently have access to the scheme.
A spokesperson for the Cycle to Work Alliance said: “The Cycle to Work Scheme has been instrumental in promoting active travel for 25 years, helping over 2 million people access a bike to cycle to work, but we recognise that many people face obstacles to being able to commute by bike. The manifesto and our exclusive data make clear that now is the time for action. We’re calling on policymakers, employers, and industry to come together and ensure that cycle commuting can thrive. This isn’t just about cycling; it’s about delivering cost-effective transport, healthier lifestyles, and a greener future for all.”
The report adds: “The scheme is currently at a critical juncture. Either we can double down, reaping the benefits
of cycle commuting for the next generation. Or we risk losing an entire cohort of cycle commuters and all of the individual and societal benefits they can collectively deliver. Getting more people cycling to work has the potential to address two major challenges facing the nation – the climate crisis and the public health crisis.”
The cycle to work initiative launched in 1999, while the C2W Alliance formed in 2010.