Scotland’s national walking charities urge all political parties to deliver a healthier, cleaner and safer Scotland by stepping up their commitment to everyday walking and wheeling
Walking Scotland and Living Streets Scotland have published ‘The Power of Walking – A Walking and Wheeling Manifesto for 2026,’ which outlines four practical steps the future Scottish Government can take to make walking and wheeling safer, more accessible, and more integrated into daily life:
- Put walking and wheeling at the heart of government – with progressive leadership across health, transport, planning and climate agendas.
- Invest in walking and wheeling – focusing on long-term funding, behavioural programmes, and better connections to public transport.
- Prioritise walking and wheeling in communities – through improved infrastructure, inclusive design, and access to green spaces.
- Improve safety for walking and wheeling – by promoting pedestrian-first streets including reduced traffic speeds and enforcement of pavement parking bans.
Walking Scotland and Living Streets Scotland have set out a clear and achievable plan for the next Scottish Government and have called for all political parties to endorse the actions.
The proposals set out are practical, proven measures that reflect what people across Scotland need. By taking these simple four steps, the organisations believe that the next Scottish Government can create a Scotland where walking and wheeling are not just possible, but easy, safe and enjoyable for everyone.
With research showing that 85% of Scots already walk or wheel regularly, and many wanting to do more, the manifesto highlights a clear opportunity for Scotland to lead the way in active, inclusive and sustainable travel.
Putting walking and wheeling first can bring big returns for Scotland by helping people stay healthier for longer, cutting pressure on the NHS, and supporting local jobs and businesses.
Investment in walking and wheeling delivers exceptional value: returning around £6 for every £1 spent and preventing thousands of serious health conditions. It also means cleaner air and more connected, welcoming communities where everyone can get around safely and easily.
Kevin Lafferty, CEO of Walking Scotland, said: “Walking and wheeling are some of the most powerful tools we have to improve health, tackle climate change and bring communities together.
“They’re simple, affordable and accessible, and people across Scotland want to do it more. This manifesto shows how we can make that happen, with practical steps that will help everyone enjoy safer, easier and more active everyday journeys.
“This is why we’re calling on the next Scottish Government to take these four steps – not as a nice-to-have, but as a vital part of building a fairer, healthier and greener Scotland.”
Chris Thompson, Programme Manager, Living Streets Scotland said: “We all deserve streets that are safe and welcoming, so we can enjoy the many benefits that come from walking and wheeling our everyday journeys.
“Many of us want to walk more but need better pavements, better public transport connections and better walking routes to feel safe and confident to do so. A commitment to invest in walking is a commitment to creating a Scotland where people enjoy healthier lives and communities thrive.”
Walking addresses inequality – it is the most inclusive form of physical activity. Everyone should be able to experience the benefits of walking and wheeling. Accessible, well-maintained paths and pavements, and access to high-quality and sustainable public green and recreational spaces for every community in Scotland are vital to encouraging people to walk and wheel.
Walking Scotland’s 2023 national survey found that improved safety, better paths locally and having someone to walk with were key factors that would encourage people to walk or wheel more often. This is why this Walking Manifesto looks for a commitment to a Path Fund to improve and maintain path networks.
The manifesto is published online, available here:
https://walkingscotland.org.uk/a-walking-and-wheeling-manifesto/
I was cycling in a public park recently in a shared space and ring my bell to allow people to know I am there. The person in front of me didn’t move and it turned out they too had hearing difficulties. They got a fright and I felt bad even though I was at walking pace. How best should we let people with hearing difficulties know we are approaching?
I also cycle Portobello prom on Sundays but promise you I am at walking space from the Beach House café to Crumbs at the amusements. Perhaps the council can put up signage to say all cyclists should do that? I don’t know if that helps.
I live in Potobello and I’m disabled .Almost every day if I have been out a bicycle nearly runs me over or frightens me because I cannot jump out of the way.I also have hearing issues.
Can someone please tell me why?? is it acceptable to have bicycles ‘flying’ along the promenade?? It becomes even worse when it is busy during holiday season There are more people about and much more dangerous for me. I get very angry when I try to get out of my house and before I know it I am pushed back in again because of a bicycle ‘flying ‘ passed the door and there is an empty road??There will be someone hurt or worse one day .I have seen many row break out where children or animals have been hurt or nearly so.Bicycles belong on the road and if on a pathway or promenade-walk.Its just not safe for people like myself or elderly people to take a stroll because it is now dangerous or frightening .Enough is enough .