British Cycling is urging the government to allocate £30 million for the next stage of a nationwide initiative designed to enhance cycling infrastructure within communities, indicating that the initial phase of this project has already resulted in savings exceeding £13 million for the NHS.

Initiated in 2019, the Places to Ride program has facilitated the development of over 150 cycling facilities throughout the UK.

The initiative has yielded positive outcomes in London, including support for the Sutton BMX track in South London, which was awarded £9,000 in funding last year.

According to British Cycling, this particular project has generated an impressive £172,000 in social value by promoting health, well-being, and other advantageous outcomes.

As the national governing body for cycling, British Cycling attributes the NHS savings of £13.1 million to the lower incidence rates of ailments such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression, along with a reduction in the frequency of GP and emergency department visits.

With the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes set to arrive in the UK in 2027, Ed Clancy, managing director of British Cycling, envisions a resurgence of interest in cycling across various forms in London, asserting that this is an opportune moment to foster grassroots support for the sport.

The organization, which cites the Sutton BMX track as prime evidence of the impact of such grants across London, seeks to broaden cycling-related opportunities within the capital.

Paulus Graham, who oversees sessions at the Sutton track, noted that the advantages extend far beyond mere physical fitness.

He remarked, “Cycling greatly enhances both physical and mental health. Some children develop resilience through their experiences—learning how to recover from falls.

“Others gain mental discipline, mastering the ability to get out of bed and show up at 9 AM.”

Among the regular participants is eight-year-old Enid, a BMX enthusiast since she was one.

She describes the sensation on the track as akin to “flying.”

Her father, Ben, has observed how the sport has positively influenced her concentration and confidence.

“She has an abundance of energy, and this effectively channels it. Although she sometimes struggles to focus on her schoolwork, when it comes to BMX, she has a remarkable ability to concentrate on what she’s doing and truly enjoys it.”

He also pointed out that the track “unites a community that might not otherwise connect.”

“You can see a diverse group of kids from various schools and backgrounds coming together on the track to enjoy themselves.”

Additional London projects that have received funding include Core Arts in Hackney (£27,000), Herne Hill Velodrome (£11,420), and Brixton BMX Track (£15,000).

British Cycling, in collaboration with Sport England and the DCMS, asserts that an additional £30 million would enable the establishment of 250 new community cycling venues.

Clancy, a former Team GB Olympian, emphasized that accessible facilities are critical in a bustling city where new riders might feel apprehensive about cycling on the road.

“It’s vital to provide a secure and welcoming environment for riding,” he said.

“When novice cyclists, especially children, lack the confidence to venture onto the roads, they need designated areas to practice.

“I understand there are always demands for government funding; however, this seems to be an investment that brings substantial returns, with a return ratio of 1 to 6.5.”