Active Travel in Northern Ireland

Active travel is the undertaking of journeys by cycling, walking or wheeling, and increasing such journeys is considered important in supporting a wide range of Executive priorities. However, today’s report concludes that delivery against active travel objectives has been poor and there is no evidence of long-term increases in levels of active travel.

Dorinnia Carville’s report considers how the Department for Infrastructure has delivered on its historic active travel objectives. It also summarises steps taken by the Department to improve delivery since the introduction of the 2022 Climate Change Act.

Despite annual spend of around £50m, targets for investing in and developing Northern Ireland’s active travel infrastructure will not be met. There is also no evidence that delivery to date has significantly increased active travel rates. These are among the findings of a report published today (Tuesday 30 September) by the Comptroller and Auditor General.