Funding Boost to Get West Yorkshire Moving: Grants of up to £50,000 Available for Active Travel Hub

Posted By: KLTVon: May 22, 2025In: Environment, News, Sport & Fitness, Talking Health TV

People on bikes , wheeling or walking around Middleton Park

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by KLTV Newsdesk –

Community organisations encouraged to apply as Combined Authority expands efforts to promote walking, wheeling and cycling

Thousands of pounds in funding are now up for grabs to encourage more people in West Yorkshire to walk, wheel and cycle.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has opened applications for its latest round of active travel funding, with community organisations across the region able to bid for up to £50,000 to become ‘active travel hubs’.

One-Stop Shops for Active Travel

The funding aims to transform local groups into active travel hubs – places where residents can access everything they need to get moving, including equipment, training, group activities, route advice, and ongoing support.

The scheme builds on the success of previous investments, including the £50,000 grant awarded in 2023 to set up the Shipley Active Travel Hub.

Thanks to the funding, the Shipley hub was able to hire a manager, renovate a workshop, purchase bikes for lessons, and supply tools for maintenance classes. It now supports hundreds of residents in staying active and connected to their local area.

A Vision Realised

Adrian Aylmer, Manager at Shipley Active Travel Hub, praised the initiative: “We had a vision for an active travel hub in Shipley to make it more accessible for people to get out and about by bike or on foot, and the funding we received helped bring that to life.

“It’s a fantastic initiative that has helped us provide all sorts of walking and cycling activities, from adult cycling lessons, bike maintenance classes and group rides, to cultural initiatives – and the people in our community have really benefited.”

Backing a Greener West Yorkshire

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “We are encouraging people to choose walking, wheeling and cycling as a way of getting around, leading to healthier and happier lifestyles.

“This will help us achieve our net-zero ambitions and create a cleaner, greener West Yorkshire.

“I’d encourage all community organisations eligible to apply for this funding to come forward and get involved.”

Over £1 Million Invested Since 2022

Since 2022, the Combined Authority has invested over £1 million through its active travel hubs programme, supporting 26 organisations across the region. The latest round of funding is open to a wide range of applicants, including social enterprises, registered charities, community interest companies, local authorities and private limited companies registered in the UK.

To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to promoting walking, wheeling and cycling in their communities.