28 Jul 2026
Local authorities have been given new guidance to help create safer, more accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes across rural England, with the publication of Active Travel England‘s first Rural Design Guide.
The guidance has been developed to address the unique transport challenges faced by rural communities, where longer distances, fewer public transport options and higher reliance on private cars can limit access to employment, education and essential services. It provides practical technical advice to help councils plan and deliver high-quality active travel infrastructure suited to villages, small market towns and the wider countryside.
The publication comes as the Government continues to expand investment in active travel through its third Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS3), which includes a commitment to deliver 5,000 new walking, wheeling and cycling routes and 10,000 safer crossings by 2030.
The guide builds on existing national design standards while recognising that rural areas require different approaches. It covers a wide range of topics, including routes alongside busy roads, quiet country lanes, traffic-free paths, crossings, wayfinding, accessibility, biodiversity and integration with new developments.
Alongside the guidance, Active Travel England has published 17 case studies showcasing successful rural schemes from across England. These include the Keswick to Threlkeld Trail in Cumbria, which re-established an important walking and cycling link following Storm Desmond, and the Beryl Burton Cycleway in Yorkshire, demonstrating how rural infrastructure can improve connectivity while supporting local communities and tourism.
The guidance was developed following extensive engagement with local authorities, rural communities and organisations including the National Trust, Natural England, CPRE, the Ramblers, Open Spaces Society, the British Horse Society and National Parks across England.
While the guide is not mandatory, it is intended to provide councils and scheme designers with a consistent framework for delivering active travel infrastructure that is safe, inclusive and appropriate for rural settings.
