Manchester City Council, in partnership with Manchester Active, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), British Cycling, Cycling UK and Marketing Manchester, has launched the Manchester City of Cycling Implementation Plan 2026–2031 at the iconic National Cycling Centre.
The new five‑year plan sets out a transformative vision for Manchester as a world‑leading cycling city, one where residents of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can choose cycling as a safe, convenient and accessible everyday option.
The launch follows two years of significant success delivered across the city since Manchester’s landmark designation as European Capital of Cycling in 2024. Over 2024–2025, Manchester and its partners achieved:
- Manchester being ranked 34th globally in the 2025 Copenhagenize Index, recognising the city’s rapid progress and global ambition.
- Record participation and inclusion, with more than 500 children taking part in free cycling activities during school holidays in 2025 at venues including the National Cycling Centre, Platt Fields Park and Wythenshawe Park.
- 42 small grants awarded since 2024 to children’s and youth cycling projects, enabling school‑based bike maintenance clubs, inclusive cycling programmes, youth cycling initiatives and engagement with ethnically diverse communities.
- 21 Cycling UK Big Bike Revival projects delivered in 2025 by 14 community organisations, helping more people to learn to ride, fix their bikes, and join led rides across neighbourhoods.
- Expansion of inclusive cycling, including weekly sessions for disabled people and those with long‑term health conditions, as well as 809 Manchester participants engaged through Cycling UK’s Inclusive Cycling Experience.
- Completion of major infrastructure milestones including the Manchester to Chorlton Cycleway, Yellow Brick Road refurbishments, and the new Ashton Canal Bridge, alongside progress on community facilities such as the new Max Trax pump track at Delamere Park in Openshaw.
- A series of high-profile community events, including Lights Up! 2025, Cycle Fest, Manchester Day cycling activities, and Manchester’s first Black Unity Bike Ride, which won Best Activation Event at the 2025 Walk Ride GM Awards.
These achievements reflect the strength of citywide collaboration and a shared commitment to making cycling a normal, celebrated and accessible part of life in Manchester.
Councillor John Hacking said: “Manchester’s ambition is clear: to become one of the UK’s leading cycling cities, and this plan turns that ambition into action. The City of Cycling programme has already shown what is possible when communities and partners work together, and now, through strong partnership and a focus on inclusion, we are deepening that impact and making cycling a realistic and enjoyable choice for everyone by opening up opportunities for every resident.”
The City of Cycling Implementation Plan 2026–2031 sets out four strategic themes that will guide investment, programmes and partnership working over the next five years:
- Cycling Participation and Community Engagement
Celebrating cycling through events, programmes and neighbourhood activity that bring people together, strengthen local identity and champion inclusion.
- Widening Access and Equity
Removing inequalities by ensuring that every resident — regardless of age, background or ability — can access a bike, develop skills, and participate confidently and safely.
- Building Sustainable Cycling Infrastructure
Delivering high‑quality, safe, accessible and connected cycling networks that make cycling a practical everyday choice for travel, leisure and recreation.
- Promoting Cycling through Communication
Using positive storytelling, aligned marketing and clear resources to inspire more people to cycle, normalise cycling behaviour and empower residents with the information they need.
The plan positions cycling not only as a transport choice, but as a driver of positive change, supporting health and wellbeing, social connection, climate ambitions and thriving local communities.
