RecruitingObservational

Changes to local transport infrastructure (like cycle tracks or greenways) and the effects on health and wellbeing in three English regions outside London

This research explores how new cycle tracks and greenways in three English regions (Greater Manchester, West Midlands, and West Yorkshire) impact people's travel habits, health, and overall well-being. The study aims to see if making it safer and easier to cycle encourages more people to do so, leading to better health. We know that being more active is good for us, and cycling is a great way to achieve this. By comparing areas with new cycle routes to those without, the study will help us understand if these improvements truly make a difference in people's lives and if similar positive changes seen in London can happen elsewhere in England.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Westminster

Enrolment target

15,135

Start

01 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

31 Oct 2028

Public health study exploring impacts of changes to the built environment on active travel and hence health outcomes such as via increased physical activity

What is this study about?

This study is designed to understand how building new paths for cycling and walking, like cycle tracks (which are separate from roads) or 'greenways' (upgraded footpaths for cycles and wheelchairs), affects people's health and how they choose to travel. The main idea is that if it's safer and easier to cycle, more people might choose to do it. We know that getting more exercise, like cycling, is good for our health.

Most of what we know about how these new paths affect people comes from London. However, London is very different from other parts of England. This study aims to find out if the good outcomes seen in London, such as better health and economic benefits, can also be achieved in other regions like Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, and West Yorkshire. These areas are planning to build many new cycle routes, following updated guidelines to make them even better than before.

Researchers will be looking at things like whether new cycle paths encourage more people to cycle, how people feel about their safety when cycling, their general well-being, and even if there are more or fewer near-misses on the roads. The study will also consider if these new paths are equally available and beneficial to different groups of people, including those from various ethnic backgrounds or with disabilities, who might not cycle as much as others.

Key takeaways

The study explores how new cycle routes affect health and travel in three English regions.
It aims to see if positive health benefits found in London can be repeated elsewhere.
Participation involves an annual short survey, with some people invited for interviews.
You must be an adult (18+) living near planned cycle routes in Greater Manchester, West Midlands, or West Yorkshire.
Your personal information will be kept private, and you'll be compensated for your time.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. You also need to live in one of three areas: Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, or West Yorkshire. Specifically, the study is looking for people who live fairly close to new cycle routes that are either planned or will be built during the study period.

You cannot take part if you are under 18 years old. The researchers are inviting people directly based on where they live, so you might receive a letter in the post if you are chosen.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you live in Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, or West Yorkshire?
Do you live near a cycle route that is either planned or being built?
Have you received an invitation letter to participate in the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you're invited to take part in this study, you will be asked to complete an online survey once a year for several years. This survey will ask about how you've travelled in the past week, how safe you feel cycling, your overall well-being, and any recent close calls you've had while travelling locally. Each survey should take no more than 15 minutes to complete. If you prefer, there will be options to complete the survey by phone, post, or in different languages.

Some people may also be invited to take part in interviews. These interviews will help researchers understand in more detail how new cycling paths affect people. This part of the study involves talking to people who have recently started cycling, as well as residents from specific local communities, including those from ethnic minority groups or with disabilities. Don't worry, your personal information will be kept safe, and no one will be able to identify you in the results.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study will help us all better understand how new cycling routes affect people's health and travel. You will be compensated for your time, which is a nice benefit. The researchers don't expect any risks beyond what you might encounter in your everyday life. A special committee from the University of Westminster will check the study regularly to make sure everything is done ethically and safely. You are also free to stop participating at any time.

Locations (1)

University of Westminster
Approximate
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a 'greenway'?

A greenway is usually a footpath that has been improved and made suitable for people using bicycles or wheelchairs, separate from motor traffic.

Will my personal information be safe?

Yes, your personal data will be kept secure, and no one will be able to identify you in the study results.

How long will the study last?

The study is planned to run from March 2025 to March 2030.

Do I have to cycle to participate?

No, you don't have to cycle. The study wants to hear from everyone, including those who don't cycle, to understand the full impact of new routes.

Who is paying for this research?

The study is funded by the National Institute of Health and Social Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.

How to find out more

Patrice Ajai-Ajagbe

ajaiajp@westminster.ac.uk 020 7911 5000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.