As part of our ambitious plans for a healthier, greener, and safer Hounslow, the council is looking to improve the active travel experience and environment for residents and visitors from all walks of life. To guide this work, a Walking and Wheeling Action Plan and Cycling Action Plan have been produced to provide more detail on these modes in support of the overarching vision set out in the council’s latest Transport Strategy, which focuses on creating a more sustainable, connected borough.
What do we mean by wheeling?
Walking and cycling are familiar ways of travelling but there can be confusion when it comes to the word ‘wheeling’. When we refer to wheeling, we mean people walking or moving with wheels at walking pace. This could be using a wheelchair or mobility scooter, travelling with a pushchair or with luggage, but it does not include cycling or e-scooters. By referring to wheeling specifically, we recognise the different needs that people have and how they may differ to those travelling on foot.
Why is active travel important?
We walk or wheel to catch the bus, to get to school or work, to meet with friends, or for exercise. It is the simplest and most accessible form of movement and requires no cost, equipment, or training. While cycling involves some level of training and investment in a bike, it facilitates active journeys over longer distances.
We want people to feel safe and comfortable walking, wheeling, and cycling around the borough. The council is also encouraging these modes to create healthier communities as active travel improves both physical and mental health and personal wellbeing.
Our sustainable travel hierarchy, which features walking, wheeling and cycling towards the top is shown below:
