MORE people in Bradford cycled at least once a week last year than in 2022, new statistics show.

Figures from the Active Lives Survey from Sport England, compiled by the Department for Transport, show 6.7 per cent of people in Bradford were cycling at least once a week in the 12 months to November 2023 - slightly up from 5.9 per cent the year before.

In 2019, before the pandemic, 6.5 per cent said they were cycling at least once a week in the area.

Across the country, 10.1 per cent of people reported cycling weekly in 2023, up from 9.3 per cent the previous year, but still below pre-pandemic levels, when 11.2 per cent did so.

Sarah McMonagle, director of external affairs at the charity Cycling UK, said: "Although it's true that the percentage of people who cycle regularly in England has dropped slightly in recent years, there are fewer people regularly using all modes of transport, except for walking and motorcycling, than in 2019.

"This is due to a myriad of factors, but the rise of remote working post-pandemic is likely a significant one.

"The truth is, most roads in England lack joined-up cycle lanes or bike parking and, where they do exist, they're often inconsistent and sub-standard and this plays a big part in deterring people from cycling more."

She added: "The good news is that this is starting to change.

"A number of local authorities, particularly since the pandemic, have built some fantastic infrastructure and have also invested in behaviour change projects.

"These projects work hand in hand with cycle infrastructure and can encourage more communities to cycle for shorter journeys.

"They can also be tailored to support different communities, opening up cycling to a broader range of people."

Locally, the Bradford City Centre Walking and Cycling Improvements scheme is continuing to progress.

This project aims to encourage people to use more sustainable ways of getting around, such as cycling, walking, cycling or public transport. 

In another initiative to promote cycling, a new electric bike hire scheme will begin in Bradford in 2025. 

The scheme will be funded by cash raised from the city's Clean Air Zone charge.

Users will be able to hire the e-bikes from docking stations, due to be located at significant locations around the area. 

A Department for Transport spokesperson said the Government welcomed the findings of the Active Lives Survey and would consider the data.