The UK’s Consolidated Active Travel Fund (CATF) merges previous capital and revenue funding streams into a single grant, aiming to support councils in delivering not only cycling and walking infrastructure but also the planning and behavioural interventions needed to encourage use. This integrated approach allows councils to implement a mix of construction projects and complementary initiatives, such as training, engagement, and early design work.
Allocations for 2025/26 have been confirmed, with every local transport authority in England receiving funding. Some councils have detailed plans for their allocations, while others are still developing proposals. In Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), £1.46 million has been allocated, with the majority going to capital schemes. The council is prioritizing “stitching” projects that connect existing routes, including upgrades and new toucan crossings, while revenue funding supports school-focused programmes, such as Sustrans’ Bike It Plus, School Streets, and a supervised bike bus initiative.
West Sussex County Council has allocated its £1.8 million between safety improvements around schools and longer-term planning for future projects. Current schemes include new zebra crossings and junction upgrades, while revenue funding is used for corridor designs, LCWIP development, evaluation, and training. Consultants have been engaged to build an outcomes framework, reflecting CATF’s dual focus on immediate infrastructure delivery and sustainable project pipelines.
In Oxfordshire, CATF is combined with other funding streams to deliver a package exceeding £18 million. Projects include major public realm upgrades in Oxford, continuation of the East Oxford Mini Holland programme, school street initiatives, and rural links under LCWIP actions. The fund supports both urban and rural improvements, demonstrating its flexibility in addressing different local needs.
The North East Combined Authority highlights the importance of CATF’s revenue component, using it for training, engagement, and early design work across its councils. This investment builds local capability, especially in areas with ambitious active travel targets but limited staff resources, ensuring sustainable delivery of cycling and walking initiatives over the long term.
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