To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how his Department encourages active travel for staff within his Department.

Staff are regularly encouraged to participate in active travel initiatives through my Department’s internal communications channels. This includes the ‘Leading the Way’ initiative which is supported by the Public Health Agency and delivered by Sustrans. This encourages DfI staff to attend walks, cycling events and workshops to support their active travel choices. My Department is also committed to the annual 4-week Active Travel Challenge (ATC), to encourage people to leave the car at home and choose more active modes of travel.

There are various bikes available, folding and standard, at the Department’s headquarters in Clarence Court for staff use for attendance at meetings and leisure use at lunchtime as well as changing rooms, showering facilities and up to 70 secure bike parking spaces available.

As well as being taking part in the employer Cycle to Work scheme that allows staff to purchase bikes through salary sacrifice, my Department also has received Silver accreditation from Cycling UK, an international recognition as a cycle friendly employer, showing a commitment to enhancing cycling opportunities for staff and visitors.