FAQs - About us
Frequently asked questions about Sustrans and our work.
FAQs on this page
Who are Sustrans?
Sustrans is an active travel charity. Our name stands for Sustainable Transport, but we haven't always been called Sustrans. We started out as Cyclebag in 1977 and within two years were building cycle routes, the first one being the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. Sustrans was established as a company and registered as a charity in 1984. Today, our work wouldn't be possible without the hard work of our 650 colleagues and 3,000 volunteers, as well as the support from our 30,000 supporters.
What does Sustrans do?
Sustrans is the charity making it easier for everyone to walk, wheel and cycle. We're the custodians of the National Cycle Network – the UK-wide network of over 12,000 miles of signed paths and routes for walking, wheeling, cycling and exploring outdoors. Of these 12,000 miles, we own roughly 2%, which equates to about 250 miles. Through our Paths for Everyone work on the network and our Liveable Towns and Cities work, our vision is a society where the way we travel creates healthier places and happier lives for everyone.
How is Sustrans funded?
As a charity, Sustrans is funded through a number of different channels.
These include applying for government funding through bids and grants, fundraising with our incredible community of supporters, working with corporate partners and Trusts who align with our mission, and more.
So that we can be as transparent as possible, we publish our annual report that details our financial accounts and activities.
You can find our most recent annual report and accounts linked here.
Do you have a newsletter?
You can subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter to stay up to date with the latest news, fundraising, events, ideas for rides and walks on the National Cycle Network, offers and updates on our work from across the UK.