Stoke-on-Trent Unveils First Plan to Expand Walking and Cycling Across the City

Stoke-on-Trent City Council has introduced its first Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), setting out a framework to make everyday journeys on foot and by bike safer, easier and more accessible across the city.

The plan is designed to support people of all ages and abilities, including cyclists, pedestrians, mobility scooter users and parents with pushchairs, with the aim of increasing active travel and giving residents more choice in how they move around the city.

The council recognises that improving walking and cycling infrastructure can offer practical alternatives for shorter journeys, while also delivering wider benefits for physical health, mental wellbeing and quality of life. The LCWIP will now be used to shape future transport schemes, support funding bids and influence the design of new developments so they better accommodate active travel.

Key routes and priority areas have been identified where improvements are needed to create safer, more convenient and better-connected walking and cycling networks. The plan also focuses on improving links to public transport, making it easier for people to walk to nearby bus stops and continue their journeys by bus.

The strategy has been developed using national Department for Transport guidance alongside local evidence on travel behaviour, population trends and road safety. It also reflects extensive engagement with residents, schools, businesses and other stakeholders.

Feedback from a public consultation carried out in August and September 2025 showed strong support for the proposals. Participants highlighted the need for joined-up cycling routes, improved safety, better promotion of active travel and infrastructure that works for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

The LCWIP forms part of the council’s wider transport ambitions, which include building a more integrated network across the city. This is supported by over £30 million of investment in bus services, alongside ongoing work to improve road and pavement conditions.

The plan also supports Stoke-on-Trent’s longer-term vision of becoming a cleaner, greener and safer place to live.

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said:

“This plan is about widening people’s choices and making it easier to travel around the city for work, leisure or health.“By identifying priority routes for walking and cycling, we are laying the foundations for a citywide network that supports active travel and helps improve health and connectivity across Stoke-on-Trent.”