Youngsters in Scotland advocate for enhanced safety in areas suitable for walking, bicycling, and wheeled activities.
In a recent report launched on 2nd April at Craigdhu Primary School in Milngavie, the Children's Walking and Cycling Index Scotland revealed that a significant number of children in Scotland are eager for safer and more accessible walking and cycling routes.
According to the report, almost half (48%) of children want to cycle more, almost a third (31%) want to walk or wheel more, and almost a quarter (23%) want to be driven less. Moreover, 77% of children support the creation of more segregated cycle paths along roads separated from cars.
The report, sponsored by Halfords and funded by the Scottish Government through Transport Scotland, was introduced by the Scottish Youth Parliament's Transport, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee (TERA). Dr Lee Muir, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development at the report's website, stated that children want to travel actively but don't feel like they have enough say in the changes being made in their local area.
The report also highlighted a gender gap in cycling, with fewer girls than boys cycling frequently and feeling safe in their local areas. Dr Muir mentioned the success of the #AndSheCycles campaign, which aims to tackle the drop-off in cycling amongst teenage girls.
In response to these findings, the Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, stated that the report demonstrates the overwhelming support for safer walking, wheeling, and cycling paths that children in Scotland are asking for. She emphasised the Scottish Government's commitment to investing in active and sustainable transport, with over £188 million planned for 2025-26.
Scotland is already taking strides towards enhancing walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure. Glasgow, for instance, is developing new active travel routes, including 11km in the inner north and south of the city. These routes will feature pedestrian infrastructure and protected cycle ways, contributing to a larger network of 270km. The city has also received a £10.6 million funding boost for sustainable travel initiatives.
The Scottish Government, through Transport Scotland, is also supporting active travel projects across Scotland with significant funding. In 2024-25, £35 million was distributed to local authorities via the Active Travel Infrastructure Fund (Tier 1) to improve infrastructure in areas of income deprivation. Glasgow's plans include using ATIF funding for major active travel projects like "Connecting Woodside" and "Flourishing Molendinar".
Additionally, an extra £19 million was invested in regional transport partnerships for initiatives like improving bike access and storage. Bikeability Scotland continues to provide essential cycle skills to school-aged children, promoting active travel from a young age.
The report urges decision makers to ensure young peoples' perspectives are at the heart of improving the places we live and the ways we get around. With the overwhelming support from children for safer and more accessible walking and cycling routes, it is clear that Scotland is moving in the right direction.
Science and health-and-wellness are deeply interconnected in the ongoing discussion about improving children's active travel in Scotland. The report reveals that a majority of children (77%) support the creation of more segregated cycle paths, which can contribute to their overall health and wellness by promoting physical activity. Furthermore, the success of the #AndSheCycles campaign, aimed at increasing cycling among teenage girls, underscores the importance of science-based solutions to health-and-wellness challenges, especially for girls.
