New funding available for walking, wheeling and cycling activities in Wakefield and Pontefract
Communities across Wakefield can apply for grants of up to £50,000 to help more people walk, wheel and cycle around the region.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is providing new grants to support the creation of walking, wheeling and cycling hubs — welcoming, inclusive ‘one-stop shops’ where residents can access the support they need to get around actively. Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin has invested more than £1.7 million in 33 of these hubs since 2022 – and is encouraging community groups to apply for the latest funding round.
Organisations can apply for grants of up to £50,000 to establish walking, wheeling and cycling hubs, or grants of up to £5,000 for smaller projects, for example group walks, cycle training sessions or equipment loans.
A previous grant winner is the Evergreen Active’s Community Active Travel Hub, which offers group walking activities across the Upton, Pontefract, South Elmsall and South Kirkby areas.
Andy Freeman, who has been leading walking groups for more than 10 years, said: “People are often a little nervous when they first come along, but it doesn’t take long before they begin building friendships, growing in confidence, and feeling part of something.
"We regularly see improvements in physical health, mental well-being, and social connections, with many people becoming more active than they ever thought possible.
“One of the most rewarding things is watching people arrive as strangers and leave as friends. Along the way, they discover new places, gain confidence to explore independently, and often experience the simple joy of finding a new snicket that leads to their favourite park.”
The scheme helps to give people the support they need to choose cycling, walking or wheeling for short journeys.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Getting active helps people lead healthier, happier lives whilst also saving money. “This funding will break down barriers to walking, wheeling and cycling, supporting more people to explore and enjoy everything our wonderful region has to offer. “This is part of our mission to create a greener, better-connected West Yorkshire for everyone.”
Funding applications are open until midnight on Wednesday, July 1.