Active neighbourhoods in Greater Manchester : summary and recommendations

Active neighbourhoods are being introduced across Greater Manchester as part of the Bee Network. Active neighbourhoods are places where people are prioritised over vehicles and are part of a policy landscape seeking to connect place and mobility and to develop local neighbourhoods where people can enjoy walking and cycling with confidence. In this research, active neighbourhoods are a lens through which to understand the implementation of walking and cycling interventions from the perspective of diverse communities; develop a qualitative baseline of perceptions of active neighbourhoods and behaviours relating to them; and add to the evidence base on effective strategies for increasing rates of active travel. Through four case study interventions in Stockport, Salford, Manchester and Bury, this research demonstrates the potential of active neighbourhoods in their current form, but also highlights concerns regarding accessibility and inclusion, particularly in terms of walking infrastructures. A number of recommendations are made centralising inclusive design, communication and engagement, and monitoring and evaluation