The RCP has released its consultation response to the UK government's call for suggestions and evidence of innovative projects and programmes for its cycling and walking strategy.
The joint submission, with the Faculty of Public Health and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, outlines how initiatives to increase levels of walking and cycling will have multiple benefits for people’s health through improving air quality, reducing rates of obesity and long term conditions related to excess weight such as coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer and musculoskeletal conditions.
Summary
- We are concerned that the well-intentioned aspirations of the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS) cannot be delivered given the level of funding proposed.
- Any initiatives to promote walking and cycling must be coupled with strategies to ensure that active travel options are as safe as they can possibly be.
- Health impact assessments should be incorporated into the strategy.
- The CWIS must be joined up with existing government health initiatives.
Contact
For more information please contact Methela Haque, public affairs adviser on methela.haque@rcplondon.ac.uk