10th January 2025
Freddie van Mierlo, Member of Parliament for Henley and Thame, yesterday pressed the Secretary of State for Transport on the need for increased funding for active travel schemes that would significantly improve cycling infrastructure in rural communities.
In an oral question in Parliament, Freddie van Mierlo highlighted the potential benefits of a proposed cycleway connecting Thame to Haddenham, which would transform how local residents travel to Haddenham and Thame Parkway Train Station. This route would make commuting by bike an easy and safe option for those looking to reduce their reliance on cars.
However, with local government finances under increasing pressure, Freddie raised concerns that the success of this project, and many others like it, depends on securing substantial central government funding.
In today’s parliamentary exchange, Freddie van Mierlo asked:
‘In my constituency a Thame to Haddenham Cycleway would transform how residents of Thame get to the local Railway station. However, with squeezed local government finances, central government funding of Active Travel is essential for getting schemes like this off the ground. Will the Secretary of State commit to increasing the Active Travel budget beyond what had already been announced in order to truly revolutionise rural cycling.’
Responding, the Secretary of State did not make a commitment to increase the funding beyond what was previously announced.
While the response falls short of the request, Freddie van Mierlo remains committed to pushing for greater support for rural active travel projects like this.
Freddie concluded, “The need for safe, connected cycling routes in rural areas is critical. Cycling should be a viable, safe, and inclusive option for everyone, but for too many, the lack of infrastructure and high-speed traffic makes it far too dangerous. I will continue to champion the case for increased funding and make sure that our community’s needs are heard in Westminster.”
