Cycle to Work Alliance appoints new Chair

Following a successful year, marking the 25th Anniversary of the Cycle to Work Scheme, the Alliance is today announcing the appointment of its new Chair, Steve Edgell of Cycle Solutions.

Edgell takes over from Chris Last who Chaired the Alliance since 2023. As Chair, Edgell will work with all members of the Cycle to Work Alliance (Halfords, Evans, Perkbox Vivup, Cycle Scheme and Cycle Solutions) – as well as industry partners and Government advocates – to maximise the reach of the Scheme and expand access to cycling to ensure more people can benefit from the proven health, environmental, and economic advantages of commuting by bike.

Continuing the Alliance’s ongoing engagement with Government, Cycling and Walking APPG, and numerous industry groups and bodies, Steve will actively push forward the industry’s priorities for active travel and see that the Scheme remains a vital benefit for all.

The Cycle to Work Scheme has enabled well over two million employees to access a bike to date. In his time as Chair, Chris oversaw the development and launch of the Alliance’s Manifesto for Cycle Commuting, a report that outlined a series of strategic proposals that aim to bridge access for the 80% of UK workers that could still benefit from the Scheme, as found in the Alliance’s recent YouGov poll.

In 2025, the focus of the Alliance will be:

1. The economic contribution of the Scheme and its role as a driver of growth in the UK.
2. The role of both the Scheme and active travel in transport decarbonisation, making commutes more environmentally friendly.
3. Ensuring the physical and mental health benefits of active travel are recognised.
4. Support for expanding the Scheme and ensuring more people can participate – building on the Alliance’s efforts to open the Scheme to e-bikes and specially adapted bikes.

Speaking of his appointment, Steve Edgell said: “It’s an honour to take on the role of Chair following such a monumental year for the Scheme and Alliance. Over the past 25 years, the Scheme has empowered millions of people to experience the life-changing benefits of cycling.

My focus will be to build on this success – working closely with our partners, Government, and the wider cycling community to break down barriers to access, improve safety, and champion cycling as a sustainable, healthy, and cost-effective way to commute.

On handing the baton to Steve, Chris Last reflected on a successful tenure: “It has been a privilege to have served as Chair since 2023. I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made for the industry and I’m confident that under Steve’s leadership, the Alliance will continue to break new ground, make cycling accessible to even more people and drive the active travel agenda forward.”