This talk draws on research conducted in England as part of studies funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and the Department for Transport/Active Travel England. This work examined local authorities’ attempts to implement walking and cycling schemes across England, in a range of contexts, using interviews and focus groups. After providing some context about walking and cycling trends and active travel policy in England, the presentation reflects on the multiple challenges facing policymakers, many shared by other cities and countries. For instance, policymakers have experienced many years of budgetary austerity and must often grapple with ‘bikelash’ and car dependence. The talk draws out shared challenges and key differences; for instance, some London districts have experienced relative success. What can be learnt from this? What problems do more rural areas face compared with urban districts? What wider lessons can be drawn for other contexts from some impressive, localised successes alongside a wider picture of schemes being delayed, removed, cancelled or watered down?
keywords: walking, cycling, governance, austerity, policy, projectification
