Cycling scheme in Nottingham and Derby helped contribute to £13 million in NHS savings
It's prompted new calls for more investment into a second phase of the Places to Ride programme
Sports and health leaders are calling on the government to invest £30 million into community cycling facilities, showcasing examples from Nottingham and Derby where schemes have enhanced wellbeing and helped save an estimated £13.1 million in NHS costs.
British Cycling is pushing for funding to double for the next phase of the Places to Ride programme, after the initiative’s first phase, launched in 2019, contributed to 150 projects across the UK. In Nottingham, grassroots coaching and upgraded facilities are transforming cycling opportunities for hundreds of children and their families.
From local schools to national impact
Caitlyn Beardsmore, a cycling coach and volunteer at Abbey Road Primary School in Nottingham, takes centre stage as an example of the programme’s local success. Over eight years, Caitlyn has taught children how to ride bikes, offering vital support to beginners, those struggling with confidence, and kids who might not otherwise access cycling opportunities outside school. Her work reflects the community-driven focus of initiatives under Places to Ride.
Caitlyn’s dedication to inspiring local children saw her recognised as British Cycling’s Volunteer of the Year. Speaking about the transformative impact of providing safe, accessible spaces like the new bike track at Abbey Road, Caitlyn said:
"The bike track, which wasn’t available when I was a student at Abbey Road, has increased coaching opportunities and enthusiasm for cycling. As a coach it’s great to have a terrain where children can safely and expertly learn to navigate rock features and berms."
Campaign for increased investment
British Cycling is leading the campaign for increased investment to roll out 250 new or updated cycling facilities across England. The focus of the second phase would remain on inclusion and providing better accessibility to cycling, particularly for children, women, individuals from low-income backgrounds, and those with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
Analysis of the first phase of Places to Ride has shown it reduced GP appointments and A&E visits, while supporting people with conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia and depression.
Building momentum
British Cycling has highlighted the potential economic benefits of further investment, including significant savings to NHS costs due to improved health outcomes. The organisation is urging people to write to their MPs in support of funding for the second phase of Places to Ride.
Government response
A Department of Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said:
"We recognise the importance of cycling in the UK and are proud to be providing £32m to support the staging of the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Départs in what will be a historic moment for the UK.
“We look forward to shortly sharing our ambitions for the first Tour de France Grand Depart legacy programme in the UK, which will inspire the next generation of cyclists, boost grassroots sport, and deliver real benefits for local economies.
"Our support for the 2027 Tour de France is on top of a committed £400m to transform grassroots sport facilities across the UK. Plans are being developed alongside sporting bodies and local leaders and further details will be announced in due course."