Sustrans has launched what it calls a ‘breakthrough tool’ that uniquely analyses localised data on public behaviours and attitudes towards walking and cycling.
The active travel charity said its Walking and Cycling Index Data Tool will provide expert insight to policymakers in local and national government, campaigners, researchers and the general public.
It said it has been capturing data since 2014, releasing findings every two years in its Walking and Cycling Index (formerly Bike Life) reports, which include an independent representative survey of adult residents, covering travel attitudes and behaviours.
However, the new tool allows attitude and behaviour data from 2019 and 2021 to be compared, segmented and analysed for use in research, policy and planning, thanks to a partnership with software design agency B Team.
Tim Burns, head of policy at Sustrans, said: ‘The Sustrans Index Data Tool will provide vital data to policymakers across the UK and Ireland.
‘It will help to inform developments in walking and cycling to spark economic and social opportunities that boost public health and our net zero hopes.
‘At a time when it's more important than ever to make the case for alternative and sustainable forms of transport, the Sustrans Index Data Tool will clarify for everyone that the opportunity to walk, wheel and cycle remains highly in demand across the UK.’
The data tool allows multiple demographic filters to be applied so that data can be segmented and compared by:
- age
- gender
- sexual orientation
- disability
- ethnic group
- socio-economic group
- city
- member authorities.
Sustrans said the Walking and Cycling Index will help policymakers understand trends, compare places and importantly shine a light on what disadvantaged communities think, including women, disabled people and people of colour.
