Almost a third of British drivers are now choosing to walk or cycle more frequently in response to soaring fuel prices, a new survey has revealed.
A further 15 per cent of motorists are actively considering making the switch to active travel.
The YouGov poll, commissioned by the charity Cycling UK, surveyed 2,099 UK adults between 31 March and 1 April. It found that driving less and increasing walking or cycling was a more common response to the current cost-of-living pressures than other measures.
These included going out less (27 per cent), using public transport instead of driving (23 per cent), cutting back elsewhere to afford fuel (19 per cent), and car-sharing (9 per cent).
The findings come as petrol and diesel prices remain significantly higher than before the conflict in the Middle East began on 28 February following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, despite a slight recent dip. A litre of petrol is still 25p more expensive, and diesel 49p more, compared to that date.
In light of these trends, Cycling UK is urging the UK and devolved governments to implement an urgent package of measures designed to facilitate greater walking and cycling.
The charity suggests initiatives such as financial support to improve access to bicycles and e-bikes, alongside efforts to enhance the safety of local roads.
Sarah Mitchell, chief executive of Cycling UK, emphasised the necessity for affordable travel options.
She stated: “People need to travel and they need to be able to do this affordably. That includes alternatives to driving, particularly for those who simply won’t be able to keep up with rising costs.”
Ms Mitchell added that such measures would “protect people who would otherwise be exposed to rising fuel costs when a crisis like this hits, and allows people to continue making their everyday journeys.”
