UK Court of Appeal Rules £200M Cycling, Walking Cuts Unlawful

The UK Court of Appeal ruled that the government's decision to cut £200 million in funding for cycling and walking infrastructure in 2023 was unlawful, as it failed to follow statutory processes required under the Infrastructure Act 2015. The ruling came after the Transport Action Network (TAN) challenged the cuts, arguing that the reductions violated the duty to maintain stability and consultation in the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS). The court found that the Secretary of State for Transport did not properly specify the financial resources as mandated, and any variation to funding must follow precise statutory procedures. While the funding cut period has ended, TAN is now seeking an immediate £250 million boost to compensate for lost funding with interest and inflation adjustment. The decision sets a significant precedent that government ministers cannot disregard parliamentary duties regarding active travel funding, promising greater stability and protection for future investments in walking and cycling infrastructure. Campaigners and public health advocates emphasize the economic, health, and community benefits of sustained investment in active travel, criticizing both Conservative and Labour governments for defending or maintaining the cuts.