Manchester launches new five-year cycling plan

Manchester City Council has announced a new five-year ‘City of Cycling’ implementation plan.

Launched in partnership with Manchester Active, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), British Cycling, Cycling UK and Marketing Manchester, the 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. ‘

Boses say the launch follows two years of significant success delivered across the city since Manchester’s landmark designation as European Capital of Cycling in 2024. Achievements include Manchester being ranked 34th globally in the 2025 Copenhagenize Index, record participation and inclusion in free cycling activities and 42 small grants being awarded since 2024 to children’s and youth cycling projects.

Elsewhere, there was 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, have also taken place.

The plan seeks to position 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.

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.

Cllr John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure, Manchester City Council, 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.”