New commissioner set to boost safer travel

A new regional initiative is set to strengthen efforts to create safer, more accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes across York and North Yorkshire.

Rhiannon Letman-Wade has been appointed as the region’s first active travel commissioner, tasked with helping deliver mayor David Skaith’s ambition for a connected network of well-lit, well-maintained routes that support everyday journeys. 

The role will also oversee the mayor’s £4 million active travel fund, ensuring investment reaches communities that stand to benefit most from improved infrastructure and safer streets.

Rhiannon brings significant experience from both rural and urban settings, having served as deputy chair of Wales’ Active Travel Board and led national initiatives aimed at encouraging active and sustainable travel.

Her work has supported the rollout of School Streets, Bikeability and ModeShift programmes, as well as helping councils raise their active travel ratings through more effective delivery.

She will now work closely with local authorities, schools, community groups and transport partners to increase confidence in active travel options, reduce barriers and support long-term behavioural change.

Rhiannon said: “There is already great work happening across the region and I’m looking forward to building on that to make walking, wheeling and cycling safer and easier for everyone.

“I’m speaking with stakeholders and community groups to build a picture of where we are now and what we need to do next. 

“Changing how people think about active travel is part of the challenge. 

“It’s not simply about replacing car journeys, it’s about seeing how it can support other ways of travelling – such as making it easier to walk to a bus stop, or cycle to a station.

“In a largely rural region like York and North Yorkshire, we need to be realistic and tailor solutions to different places. 

“Safer school journeys are a priority, and I’m committed to helping our communities get the support they need.”

Mayor Skaith added: “York and North Yorkshire should be the place for walking, wheeling, and cycling, and everyone should feel safe, and be safe, when they do. 

“I’ve spoken to countless communities across the region and it’s clear that people want safer streets so they can feel more confident to walk, wheel and cycle. 

“Our region’s first active travel commissioner is going to help us move forward to achieve that goal and gives us the expertise to deliver real change. 

“Rhiannon has a strong track record of delivering exciting active travel schemes and a commitment to empowering communities to make the change they want to see in their neighbourhoods. She brings a wealth of experience and will be at the forefront of helping York and North Yorkshire move forward.”

Residents and organisations across York and North Yorkshire are encouraged to share their views on walking, wheeling and cycling in their area by contacting the new commissioner at activetravel@yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk.

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