DfT seeks innovations that will boost cycling and walking

The Department for Transport (DfT) is seeking innovations that encourage more people to make journeys by bike or on foot. An open competition was launched today, which will run through the Small Research Business Initiative (SRBI). The DfT said it would fund projects that propose innovative means of tackling the barriers to walking and cycling.

Entries should outline ideas that make it easier for people to cycle to work, improve the image of cycling, make cycling feel safer for teenagers and women, and combine cycling and rail travel.

The DfT is also seeking innovations designed to increase walking among those aged between 30 and 49 and over 60 and improve actual and perceived road safety for pedestrians through safer crossings, increased personal safety and design of objects and street furniture. 

Also under consideration are journey planning tools and the use of electric bikes. 

A team of independent experts will assess the entries, and the DfT will then develop a portfolio of projects.

The competition application deadline is midday on Wednesday 14 June.

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