Active travel in Greater Manchester saving NHS £45m a year, new Index reveals

Walking, wheeling and cycling in Greater Manchester are saving the NHS more than £45 million every year – the equivalent of over one million GP appointments – according to the region’s Walking and Cycling Index 2025.

The report, launched by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), is described as the UK’s largest ever assessment of active travel. It highlights the health, economic and social benefits already being delivered across the city region, while also identifying areas where further improvements are needed.

Health, savings and public support

The Index shows that more than half of Greater Manchester residents say they can reach many of the places they need without driving. Active travel is contributing to improved public health and helping create more liveable neighbourhoods.

There is also strong backing for people-focused streets. Three quarters (76%) of residents support improving and expanding local off-road walking, wheeling and cycling routes. Meanwhile, 77% would like more accessible pavements and 75% want additional road crossings to make walking and wheeling easier.

However, safety remains a concern. Fewer than half (45%) of residents say they believe it is safe for their children to walk or wheel in their community.

Jonah Morris, Growth and Partnerships Manager for the North of England at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said the findings demonstrate both progress and potential.

“It shows strong public support for neighbourhoods designed around everyday journeys that can be made easily on foot, with a wheelchair or by bike, whilst highlighting some concerns around safety and infrastructure,” he said.

Changing travel culture

The report features personal stories from residents who are embracing active travel. Rabiya, a parent from Greater Manchester, said pedestrian-friendly streets and accessible public transport make it easier to travel actively with her daughter.

“It’s easier to walk with the buggy in the city centre – it’s very pedestrianised,” she said. “Walking just calms her down and there’s a lot to learn from being outdoors.”

Initiatives such as School Streets are also helping shift behaviour. At Russell Scott School in Denton, traffic restrictions during drop-off and pick-up times have encouraged more families to walk, scoot or cycle.

Headteacher Steve Marsland described the scheme as a “game changer”, adding that it has helped improve air quality and promote healthier routines.

Supporting the Bee Network

Greater Manchester has set a target for 70% of primary school pupils to walk, wheel, cycle or scoot to school by 2030.

Dr Richard Nickson, Network Director: Active Travel at TfGM, said walking and cycling act as the “glue” that connects the Bee Network – the region’s integrated public transport system.

The Index is intended to provide evidence to support local and national decision-making, helping unlock further investment and enabling more residents to choose active travel for everyday journeys.