
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough lead the way at Active Travel Conference
An Active Travel Conference, hosted in Whittlesford, has brought together local authorities, industry experts, and active travel advocates from across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to discuss the region’s growing commitment to walking, cycling, and wheeling.
The event showcased innovative projects aimed at making active travel accessible for everyone and reaffirmed the region’s ambition to be a national leader in sustainable transport.
Cllr Anna Smith, in her keynote address, reflected on the personal and wider societal benefits of active travel: “As someone who rediscovered the joy of cycling abroad, I’ve experienced first hand how good infrastructure and inclusive design can make all the difference,” she shared. “For too long, active travel has been seen as something reserved for enthusiasts, but we’re working to change that perception. It’s about creating spaces where everyone feels empowered to walk, cycle, or wheel—whether you’re a parent with toddlers, a person with a disability, or someone just looking for an alternative to the car.”
The conference highlighted the importance of collaboration between councils, Active Travel England, and external partners such as Sustrans and Love to Ride. Cllr Smith praised the collective efforts: “We’ve heard about some truly innovative work today—whether it’s forming dedicated active travel teams, improving access to schools, or exploring surfaces that work for all users. These initiatives show real, tangible progress and are key to making active travel an everyday choice for more people in our region.”
Reflecting on the broader impact of active travel, Cllr Smith linked these efforts to the government’s five national missions: boosting economic growth, making the UK a clean energy superpower, improving public health, making streets safer, and breaking down barriers to opportunity. “Active travel fits into every one of these missions,” she noted. “It’s about more than just transport—it’s about creating healthier, more connected, and more prosperous communities.”
The event also served as a platform for learning from successful schemes outside the region, inspiring local leaders to continue innovating. The conference, funded by Active Travel England, underscored the region’s ongoing commitment to reducing car dependence and promoting sustainable, inclusive travel options for all residents.
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