Nottingham leads England's top councils for active travel innovation

From bold infrastructure to visionary leadership, Nottingham sets the standard. Will its success unlock more funding for greener streets?

, and Administrator

2026 April 7 . 5:17 PM

1 min read

The image shows a bustling city street with cars and motorcycles driving down it. There are people... — The image shows a bustling city street with cars and motorcycles driving down it. There are people walking and riding bicycles, and buildings on either side of the street. Electric poles with wires and boards with text can be seen, as well as trees and a clear blue sky in the background.

Nottingham leads England's top councils for active travel innovation

Nottingham City Council has been named one of the top local authorities for active travel in England. The recognition comes from Active Travel England's latest capability ratings, where only six councils achieved the highest score. Meanwhile, nominations have opened for the third annual CiTTi Awards, set to take place in London this November. The 2024 ratings assessed 80 local authorities outside London, with Nottingham securing a Capability Rating (CR) of 3—the highest possible. Active Travel England highlighted the council's 'very strong local leadership, detailed plans, and an expanding network' that encourages walking, wheeling, and cycling. In contrast, Nottinghamshire's overall rating dropped from 2 to 1 in the same assessment.

The self-assessment process ran from October to December 2023, with results now influencing funding allocations for 2024/25. Only six councils, including Nottingham, reached the top tier this year. Separately, the CiTTi Awards will return on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Organisers have announced that nominations for the event are now open.

Nottingham's high rating could lead to increased funding for active travel projects in the coming year. The council's success follows a detailed evaluation of its infrastructure and leadership. The CiTTi Awards will also provide another opportunity to recognise innovation in transport and travel initiatives.