Beccy Marston, the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Active Travel Commissioner, has emphasized that her efforts to promote walking, cycling, and wheeling are not about waging a “war on motorists.” Instead, her focus is on providing safer and more viable travel options across the region.
Appointed a year ago, Beccy’s mission has been to dismantle barriers that discourage people from choosing active travel modes. The West Midlands has secured £36 million in funding to invest in infrastructure improvements and develop new routes for walking and cycling over the next four years.
In her first year, Beccy collaborated with local authorities, Sport England, and community groups to identify local needs and shape effective travel strategies. Alongside Road Safety Commissioner Mat MacDonald, she has helped develop the “Kids Streets” initiative, which aims to create safer routes for children walking to school.
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Beccy also played a key role in selecting Lime to operate the region’s new e-bike and e-scooter schemes. These electric options address barriers such as fitness levels and terrain challenges, encouraging more people to try cycling.
Promoting cycle training, especially through school bikeability sessions, is another of her priorities to build confidence among young riders. Her efforts have garnered global recognition, including being named among the top 100 Mobility Changemakers by Zag Daily.
“We have invested heavily in infrastructure and will continue to do so,” Beccy said. “Our goal is to make smaller local trips safer and encourage people to consider larger journeys by bike, on foot, or using public transport.”
She stressed that active travel offers not only a transport solution but also health and environmental benefits. “This isn’t an attack on motorists — it’s about giving people safe, viable choices. Sitting in traffic means breathing pollution, but walking or cycling offers cleaner air and built-in exercise.”
Beccy acknowledged that shifting habits takes time. “People don’t always calculate the true cost of car use. Walking, wheeling, cycling, and public transport can be cheaper, quicker, and better for your wellbeing.”
The new Lime contract is expected to increase e-bike and e-scooter use, with their accessible design helping users overcome health or fitness concerns. Lime’s community engagement will also support expanding ridership.
Infrastructure projects are underway across the West Midlands to enhance connectivity between urban centers such as Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell, and Birmingham. The authority also provides adult cycling training and distributes bikes to NHS workers.
Beccy highlighted the long-term vision: “Eventually, you’ll be able to cycle safely through multiple towns across the region, thanks to ongoing funding and improvements. Building more protected cycle paths gives people the confidence they need to ride.”
With a focus on safety, accessibility, and choice, Beccy Marston’s work aims to transform active travel in the West Midlands — offering practical alternatives that benefit everyone.