Data tool launched to support UK active travel policies

UK active travel charity Sustrans has launched what it calls “a breakthrough tool” that analyses localised data on behaviours and attitudes towards cycling and walking.

The Sustrans Walking and Cycling Index Data Tool, created in partnership with software design agency B Team, is designed to provide policymakers in local and national government, campaigners, researchers and the general public with deeper insights into active travel trends.

Active travel data from 2019 and 2021 can be compared, segmented and analysed for use in research and policy through two dashboards on behaviour and attitudes.

“The Sustrans Index Data Tool will provide vital data to policymakers across the UK and Ireland,” said Tim Burns, Head of Policy at Sustrans.

“It will help to inform developments in walking and cycling to spark economic and social opportunities that boost public health and our net zero hopes.

“At a time when it’s more important than ever to make the case for alternative and sustainable forms of transport, the [tool] will clarify for everyone that the opportunity to walk, wheel and cycle remains highly in demand across the UK.”

Later this year, two more dashboards will be added: city data, such as on cycle path and walking routes; and data on the benefits of walking and cycling.

Game changer?

Until now, the charity has only published summaries of the data through its biennial Walking and Cycling Index.

The Index, which was launched in 2014, includes an independent representative survey of adult residents, covering travel attitudes and behaviours.

Through the new tool, multiple demographic filters can be applied, allowing data to be segmented and compared by age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnic group, socio-economic group and city.

The charity says the data will be a crucial resource for the transport and placemaking sectors, as well as local authorities and government, following active travel funding cuts in England by the Department for Transport.

“It would be welcome to many, in the light of a recent National Audit Office report criticising the active travel sector on evaluation of outcomes and impact – on which the Data Tool can provide localised insight,” a statement from the charity said.

Index data will be continually updated and regularly broadened in scope.

Image: Sustrans