Cycling to school helps drive for cleaner air across the Borough
Celebrations for increased bike storage at Crestwood School, Shakespeare Campus, Eastleigh
The connection between active travel and cleaner air is at the heart of a growing effort across Eastleigh, as schools and the Council work together to reduce emissions and promote healthier lifestyles. Encouraging more journeys by bike not only benefits young people’s wellbeing but also helps cut congestion and improve air quality, particularly during busy school-run times.
Schools are playing an important role in a wider Council initiative to improve air quality across the Borough, supported by Defra’s Air Quality Grant. Building on previous cycling and clean air projects, practical improvements are making sustainable travel a more accessible choice for families.
At Crestwood Community School’s Shakespeare Campus, bike storage has been expanded from around 20 to 80 spaces, making it easier for pupils and staff to cycle to school. The upgrade supports efforts to reduce car use while promoting healthier, more independent travel habits.
Nearby, Norwood Primary & Preschool has also increased its cycle storage from around 30 to 50 spaces, giving more families the opportunity to choose greener ways to travel.
At Eastleigh Borough Council, we are committed to creating a comprehensive network of cycle routes across the Borough. In total, there are approximately 71km of designated cycle routes, supported by over 40 locations offering cycle parking facilities.
These ongoing improvements, alongside work in schools and communities, are helping to make active travel a safer, easier, and more attractive choice for everyone, supporting cleaner air, healthier lifestyles, and a more sustainable future for Eastleigh.
Join us in late August, to early September as we celebrate our second Walking and Wheeling Festival, and continue building momentum for positive change across the Borough.
Learn more about the Council's Air Quality work.
Pictured left to right: Headteacher of Crestwood Community School, Krista Dawkins, Deputy Headteacher Shakespeare Campus, Steve Topazio and pupils. Staff from Eastleigh Borough Council, Air Pollutions Manager, Andre and Air Pollutions Specialist, Yacklin