Active Travel Infrastructure Fund: Tier 1

From 2024-25, Cycling Walking Safer Routes has been superseded by Tier 1 of the ATIF. With a reduced administrative burden for LAs in delivering the Fund, and aligned with the principles of the Verity House Agreement, the Fund uses a revised distribution methodology and improved reporting mechanisms to allow for more effective long term evaluation.

The new Tier 1 methodology, agreed with CoSLA Leaders, includes population density and income deprivation to inform funding distribution.

Tier 1 is a capital fund which helps to ensure LAs have the flexibility to both improve their own capacity and capability, as well as deliver schemes they identify as priorities for their local communities.

A key element of this funding is the intention that as the new delivery model becomes established, an increasing number of LAs will qualify for a greater proportion of funding through Tier 1. Measured increases in future Tier 1 funding allocations will be as a result of LAs’ expenditure of Tier 1 funding in previous years being in line with our advice and guidance, and subject to budget availability in future years.

Engagement through year 1 of the fund indicates that the introduction and operation of Tier 1 has been successful. LAs are delivering across all project types, with a strong focus on improving walking and wheeling infrastructure with crossings and footway/ pavements being the most common project types.

Table 2: CWSR 2023-24 and Tier 1 2024 -25 Infrastructure and Delivery Summary

Case Study: Victoria Street, Monifieth

This £100,000 project widened a footway, cut back vegetation and added a side road zebra crossing outside the Seaview Primary School in Monifieth. Previously, the footway was narrow and the junction lacked a safe crossing point, making passing difficult especially for those with mobility issues or with young children in buggies. Improvements here also complement the wider school friendly zone.