Barnsley Council receives £468,000 to expand walking, cycling and wheeling programmes

Barnsley Council has secured a £468,000 grant from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority to fund active travel initiatives across the borough for the next three years, with the package running until March 2029.

The money will be used to sustain and expand programmes that encourage residents to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their daily routine. Council officials stress that the grant does not add any extra expense to the council’s budget.

Supported projects

Among the initiatives receiving support are Barnsley Bike Works, which offers residents bike maintenance, repairs and practical advice, and the Ramp Up scheme that provides supervised BMX riding and scooting sessions for children and young people using supplied equipment. School walking and cycling programmes will promote active travel among pupils, families and staff, while wellbeing walks and themed children’s walks aim to boost physical activity, mental health and community cohesion.

Council response

Councillor David Goddard, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Transport, said the investment allows the council to continue delivering programmes that are already helping people become more active and gives more residents the chance to discover simple, enjoyable ways to add movement to everyday life. He added that the projects also support affordable travel options, reduce reliance on the car and make it easier to get around the borough in healthier, more sustainable ways.

The funding sits within South Yorkshire’s broader strategy to promote walking, wheeling and cycling and reflects the objectives set out in Barnsley’s Active in Barnsley Physical Activity Strategy, which identifies active travel as a key component of improving physical and mental health across the community.