Mayor Oliver Coppard's Vision for Active Travel in South Yorkshire

In South Yorkshire, we believe that everyone should have the freedom to move in ways that work for them—whether that’s walking to the bus stop, using their mobility scooter to get to the local shop, or riding their bike to school. 

This strategy is about giving people real choice in how they get around. Because the truth is, most journeys don’t start on a bus or end on a train—they start on our streets, in our neighbourhoods, and with our feet. That’s why we’re building a transport system that works for everyone. That means making it easier, safer and more welcoming to walk, wheel and cycle — and making it a seamless connection to the bus, tram or train. It’s about making sure that the first and last mile of every journey is one people feel confident and comfortable making. And it’s about making sure that public transport and active travel aren’t just connected—they’re integrated. 

But this strategy is about so much more than transport. I’ve committed to South Yorkshire becoming the healthiest region in the country because poor health doesn’t just affect individuals and families; it holds back our whole region. Helping people be a bit more active every day will play a huge role in achieving that ambition. So, we want to build a region where walking, wheeling and cycling aren’t just good for you—they’re the easiest, most natural choice. 

That’s especially true for our children. I’ve promised to make South Yorkshire the best place in the country for kids to walk, wheel and cycle. Because every child deserves to feel safe and confident getting to school, playing out, or heading to the park. And every parent deserves to know their child can do that safely. 

We’re also putting our communities front and centre. Too many people in South Yorkshire have been left out and left behind for too long. That’s not good enough. So, we’re changing how we work. We’re designing our new projects with people, not for them. We’re listening to those who are the most often left out and left behind — people with disabilities, women and girls, people from ethnically diverse communities, and those living on low incomes. And we’re making decisions that reflect their needs, their voices, and their lived experiences. 

This strategy is built on evidence, shaped by insight, and driven by ambition. It’s about creating safer streets, stronger communities, and a healthier, happier South Yorkshire. It’s about making sure that no matter who you are, or where you live, you have the opportunity to move freely, safely and with dignity. 

Let’s build a region where everyone has the choice to walk, wheel and cycle—and where no one is left behind.