North East Lincolnshire Rides High in National Safe Cycling Rankings

NORTH East Lincolnshire has been named one of the top 10 best performing local authorities in England for delivering Bikeability training, equipping thousands of young people with essential cycling skills and road safety awareness.

Latest figures from the Bikeability Trust Impact Report reveal that North East Lincolnshire is leading the charge in promoting safe, confident, and responsible cycling among children.

The scheme in North East Lincolnshire is delivered by charitable trust Lincs Inspire, with funding from North East Lincolnshire Council (NELC). In the last academic year, over 1,600 pupils across the borough completed a combined Level 1 and 2, or 3 Bikeability training.

The collective efforts in North East Lincolnshire have placed it in the national top tier for the number of pupils completing Bikeability courses.

Bikeability, often described as “cycling proficiency for the 21st century,” is a government-backed programme designed to give cyclists the skills and confidence to ride on today’s roads.

Ben Frary, sport and health improvement manager for Lincs Inspire, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised nationally for our commitment to Bikeability. Teaching children how to cycle safely is about more than just riding a bike—it’s about independence, confidence, and long-term wellbeing.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our schools, our brilliant cycling instructors, and to NELC. Together, we’re helping shape a generation of safe, active, and environmentally conscious young road users.”

The programme also contributes to wider local goals around reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and encouraging healthier lifestyles.

Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "We are immensely proud of this achievement.  "It's great to know that so many young people are being taught how to bike correctly, but more importantly, safely. North East Lincolnshire Council are striving to make the area safer while creating a more connected community wherever possible.

"Additionally, by teaching children to use more environmentally friendly modes of transport, these courses open their eyes to the world of sustainable travel.

"The skills they learn can also be used on some of the boroughs many cycling routes that allow cyclists to take in some of the wonderful sights we have to offer.

"These courses are just the start for the cyclists of the future though; the Council hope they can take what they've learnt and put it into practice going forward."

Lincs Inspire last week visited Healing Primary Academy with all 24 year 6 pupils passing their Bikeability Level 2 course. Principal at the school, Claire Knight, said: “The Bikeability programme is a fantastic addition to our school’s curriculum. Our pupils absolutely love taking part, and it gives them real-world skills that will keep them safe. It’s wonderful to see their confidence grow as they learn how to navigate roads and understand the rules of cycling responsibly.”

Whilst Lincs Inspire delivers Bikeability training in every school in North East Lincolnshire, they also run one-on-one Cycle Confidence sessions for children and adults every Wednesday and Friday from Bradley Football Development Centre. These sessions help cyclists learn to ride, stay safe or ride with confidence. They are also ideal preparation for Bikeability and beyond.