Suffolk celebrates five years of investment in the National Cycle Network

Suffolk County Council is proud to mark five years of dedicated investment in the National Cycle Network – a key part of the county’s infrastructure supporting safer, greener, and more accessible travel for all.

In that time Suffolk County Council has secured more than £5 million to enhance the network across the county.

This work has been delivered in partnership with Walk Wheel and Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans), the national charity responsible for maintaining and developing the Network.

Together, they have delivered improvements in signage, route safety, and connectivity - helping thousands of residents and visitors walk, wheel, and cycle more confidently and more often.

Key areas of improvement include routes from Ipswich Hospital to the Waterfront area, Nacton Road in Ipswich, Main Road in Martlesham, and areas within Woodbridge as part of the town’s active travel project.

The Network plays a crucial role in connecting Suffolk’s towns, villages, and countryside — linking historic market towns, scenic coastal paths, and rural communities.

It not only offers a low-carbon transport alternative but also encourages healthier, more active lifestyles.

Looking to the future, Suffolk County Council is excited to announce proposals for two pilot Quietways - low-traffic rural routes designed to form part of the Network and provide an even more comfortable and attractive experience for people choosing active travel.

These Quietways, funded by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, via Active Travel England are currently being explored between Carlton Colville and Barnby, and Onehouse to Woolpit. 

Councillor Alexander Nicoll, Suffolk County Council Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy, said: “We are committed to delivering a high-quality active travel network that works for every community in Suffolk.

“These schemes align with national standards and support our long-term ambitions under the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy.

“Whether you're commuting, exercising, or simply enjoying the outdoors, we want active travel to be the easy and natural choice for everyone in Suffolk.”

Matt Barber, Head of Growth and Partnerships at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said: “We are extremely grateful for the support shown by Suffolk County Council, and we are delighted that this commitment to improving the National Cycle Network is continuing.

“We know that across Suffolk thousands of people enjoy using the Network each year, helping to improve their health, whilst cutting congestion and carbon emissions.

“However, we also know that for many the lack of safe, accessible infrastructure is the reason they cannot regularly walk, wheel, or cycle – this is why we are delighted to be piloting two Quietway projects in Suffolk; allowing us to test out low-cost interventions as we attempt to connect up more of our villages and communities.”