London records major increase in cycling as infrastructure investment pays off

London is experiencing a major increase in cycling, with the number of daily bike journeys up 43% since 2019, according to new data released by Transport for London (TfL).

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TfL says the rise is being driven in large part by the expansion of safe cycling infrastructure, including new cycleways, protected junctions and low-traffic neighbourhoods. The network of high-quality routes has now reached more Londoners than ever before, with nearly 70% of people living within 400m of a cycleway, compared with 54% in 2019.

TfL says the data underlines the importance of continuing investment in cycling infrastructure. Areas with newly completed segregated lanes and junction upgrades have seen some of the strongest growth, demonstrating what TfL describes as “a clear link between safer, more accessible routes and increased cycling uptake”.

London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner Will Norman said the figures showed that “when we build safe, connected cycling routes, Londoners use them”, highlighting the role of cycling in reducing congestion, improving air quality and supporting the city’s net-zero ambitions.

TfL also pointed to wider benefits, including improved public health and reduced pressure on public transport networks. With cycling now accounting for around a quarter of all road journeys in central London during peak times, the shift is helping free up capacity for people who need to drive or take the bus.

Despite the progress, TfL warned that continued funding is essential to maintain momentum. Several major schemes – including further cycleway extensions and junction safety upgrades – remain dependent on future funding agreements with government.

Campaigners welcomed the figures but called for a more consistent long-term investment programme. Cycling groups argue that gaps in the network still deter less confident riders, and that borough-level delivery varies significantly.