Sheffield will be transformed into a healthier, greener and pedestrian-friendly city after the City Council approved plans to pursue their ‘Walking, Wheeling and Cycling’ development project on Wednesday 30 April.
Speaking at the transport and regeneration committee meeting, Ed Clancy OBE, South Yorkshire’s Active Travel Commissioner said: “People are proud of their history and want to see investment in their neighbourhood to create better places. We want everyone, whether they’re 3 years old or ninety-three years old to feel like they’re welcome to walk, wheel and cycle in their neighbourhoods.
“Sheffield has a healthy life expectancy of just 61 years. There is a life expectancy disparity of 20 years between the wealthiest and poorest postcodes across Sheffield. We need excellent community engagement.”
Data from 2023 showed that only 8% of people in Sheffield walk to work, and only 1.5% cycle. Short-term plans will focus on developing strategic cycling routes by 2027.
Les Woodward, 47, of Upperthorpe, Sheffield, said: “Most people I know just care about convenience. Walking or cycling is basically a luxury for people with spare time, you know. The people that pass me everyday are in a rush, you know they just want to get to their destination quickly.
“If you’re trying to get to work or see family or whatever, why wouldn’t you drive or get the best public route? Walking and cycling would be a lot of people’s last choice, it’s dead cold for most of the year.”
On 12 February 2025, the government announced £300 million of funding to allow the construction of improved crossings and junctions to make walking, wheeling and cycling easier, safer and better across the country.
Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood, said: “Investing in our national cycling and walking infrastructure is a key part of our mission for growth and today’s investment will not only provide better connectivity but boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS.”
Medium to long term plans, which aim to complete between 2035 and 2045, include developing walking access and enjoyment in the city, introducing new 20mph zones, pedestrian crossings and school streets. By 2045, the council hopes to have produced a comprehensive, high-quality network across the city.