Our 2026 Programme for Government asks

We’re urging the Scottish Government to make walking and wheeling a priority in the 2026 Programme for Government. 

Each year the Scottish Government write a Programme for Government. It outlines their priorities, policy goals and proposed legislation.

We want walking and wheeling to be prioritised in the 2026 Programme for Government. Our asks for the Scottish Government are: 

• publish and resource a new National Walking Framework
• create a sustained, multi-year Scottish Path Fund
• continue investment in walking and wheeling as a preventative health measure
• make streets safer and more accessible.

The next Programme for Government can turn our asks into action.  

The demand is clear. Our Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey 2025 found that 57% of adults in Scotland walk or wheel every day, up from 52% in 2023, and that 86% walk or wheel several times a week. However, 5% of adults say they never walk, an increase from 2% in 2023. 68% want to walk more for leisure and 63% for routine reasons. 

Walking and wheeling improve our health and reduce inequality. They also help cut emissions and strengthen our economy. Removing barriers to everyday walking and wheeling helps us stay active. Accessible and safe walking and wheeling help us reach services and public transport more easily. They also mean we spend more time and money in our local communities. 

Investing in walking and wheeling makes sense for our communities, our economy and the climate. We want the Scottish Government to recognise the value of walking and wheeling. 

If you would like to find out more about our 2026 Programme for Government asks, please email policy@walkingscotland.org.uk.

Published: 26 August 2026