Greater Manchester has launched England’s ‘first inclusive cycling network’, which seeks to make active travel accessible to everyone.
With centres in every borough, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) says the network will enable people to try out different types of cycles in safe and supportive settings, with a focus on fun and enjoyment.
Supervised sessions at parks and sports centres will aim to build participants’ confidence, independence and wellbeing. A variety of cycles are available to meet individual needs, including handcycles, tricycles, side-by-sides, recumbents and tandems.
The Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network is made up of 15 partner organisations, including the charity Wheels for All – the largest provider of inclusive cycling in the country – and TfGM. Partners will work together, share knowledge and support one another to overcome challenges and make cycling more accessible for all, regardless of ability, background, or experience.
The network was launched at a Wheels for All session at Leigh Sports Village, where the charity’s new patron, Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner for England, was joined by Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester.
The event saw members of the public enjoying the use of non-standard cycles on the sports village’s outdoor track, while volunteers and staff from each of the network partners came together for the first time for training and discussion.
One of the participants, Eileen Powrie, who also volunteers at Wheels for All, said: “It puts the joy back in life. People get to 70 and they think their life is over, but it gives you your life back.”
Andria Wright, from Abram, who also took part in the Wheels for All session, added: “They’ve changed my life, it’s given me a purpose. My mental health has improved so much. I’m included now, I’m just like anybody else.” Her husband Neil Wright, added: “She’s 18 again with a sparkle in her eye.”
Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “Cycling really can be for everyone and the Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network is a testament to the work being done to enable more people to try the cycle that works for them.
“We know from the recent Cycling UK report that when disabled people are given the opportunity to cycle, the benefits are almost immeasurable, from improved physical health and mental well-being to greater access to places and opportunities, and far less instances of loneliness and social isolation.
“Building confidence for cycling is not always that easy and across the network of inclusive cycling centres here in Greater Manchester, staff and volunteers are providing bespoke sessions for people with a wide variety of needs. As well as being able to try different types of cycle the network’s 15 partner organisation are also providing support with cycle training, navigation skills and cycle maintenance.
“It is fantastic to see the work being done to enable more people to learn to cycle independently and as we build the Bee Network cycling routes, we know we will be able to support more people using different types of cycle to make their short everyday journey with confidence and freedom.”
People can find out about an accessible cycling centre near them by clicking here.
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Tue 11 Nov 2025
