Reducing Mileage

Reducing mileage

Pollution from cars is one of the biggest contributors to air pollution and climate change.

When fuels such as petrol and diesel are burned to power vehicles, they release harmful gases and particulate matter that impact our physical health and have detrimental effects to the environment.

You can help us to make a big difference however. By making small changes to your routine, walking, cycling or using public transport when you can instead of your car, you will help to keep the air across Wigan Borough safe and clear.

Let's make a difference

Click below to find out how we can support you in reducing your mileage:

Start cycling

Get walking

Use public transport

Start cycling

Whether you've never ridden a bike before, or haven't in years, we've got some useful tips to get you cycling around the Borough in no time.

Get walking

Walking can be so beneficial to you and your family, and it helps to keep the air in Wigan Borough clear and safe.

Walking to your local shops, to school or work, or for leisure, all have benefits for your health and wellbeing. When you choose to walk it means fewer cars are on the road, reducing the amount of emissions polluting the Borough.

Use public transport

With tons of options for getting around the Borough, utilising our public transport network is a great way to get where you need to be quickly, while helping to keep the air clean and safe.

Not sure about cycling?

Getting started

Finding the best routes

Walking for your body

Walking for your mind

Making the most of your walk

Benefits to you

Staying safe

Not sure about cycling?

Top Tips - Make sure you are ready to cycle safely through the Borough.

Select a bike from a reputable shop.

Make the most of the expertise of the staff, they will help to pick the bike that best suits you.

Find cycle shops in your local area

Get comfortable on your bike.

Making sure your saddle is the right height is a key step in making your bike fit you!

Your legs should be straight, so when you step on the peddle there's a slight bend.
You want to have a slight bend in your elbows too - you know the reach is right when the front wheel of the hub disappears from view under the handlebars when you are riding.

Learn how to fix a puncture.

When you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail!

Knowing how to fix a puncture will mean you're never left stranded if your tyre lets you down.

We're here to help... it's not as hard as it seems!

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fix a puncture

Invest in a few essentials and cycle safely.

Cycling doesn't need to be an expensive hobby but there are some key items you should have to keep safe:

A well-fitting helmet.
Front and rear lights.
A secure bike lock.
A waterproof jacket.

Find out more about bike light laws in the ukhere

Getting started

Be Well - Active Outdoors Cycle.

We get it, cycling might not be for everyone, but don't write it off just yet; it might become your new moment of bliss!

Cycling as a group is a great way to gain confidence on the bike, as well as make new friends and explore new routes around the Borough.

Prefer to cycle alone or with your friends? You can also book individual or group cycling sessions, to start to grow your confidence.

Find out more about cycling around Wigan

Finding the best routes

Did you know...

Over 75% of all car journeys are less than five miles, with 50% less than two. Cycling is well suited to short journeys, getting you there faster than if you walked.

Choosing the route that gets you to your destination as quickly as possible is key, especially when you're peddling to get to work on time. We're here to make sure you choose a route to allow you to cycle safely, quickly and avoid some of those pesky hills.

Find Cycle Routes and Resources

Walking for your body

Walking is a great way to move your body keeping it fit and healthy.

Walking helps to build up your stamina, making everyday movement easier.
Keeps your heart, lungs and circulation healthy and improves your mobility and flexibility.
Walking burns excess calories, helping you to maintain a health bodyweight.

Walking for your mind

Walking is an amazing tool to take care of your mental health. It can have many benefits to your wellbeing.

Reduces stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, mood-boosting hormones.
Walking can help you to sleep better, giving you more energy to take on the day.
Walking in nature gives you time to reflect and collect your thoughts, keeping your mind calm and collected.

Making the most of your walk

The easiest way to walk more is to make it a habit; think of ways it can become part of your routine.

For example:

Walking to the shops.
Walking to school or work.
Leaving your car behind for short journeys.
Planning a regular walk with a friend.

Making your walks fun and enjoyable is also key to keeping your new habit.

Exploring a variety of spots ensures your walks stay interesting.

Walking in a group keeps you accountable and gets you making new friends whilst keeping active.

Wigan and District Ramblers organise a variety of walks for all abilities, helping local people to enjoy walking and protect the beautiful places across the Borough.

Get involved! at the Wigan and District Ramblers

Benefits to you

Taking public transport doesn't have to be stressful. In fact there are many ways choosing public transport over driving can make your day a little better:

You can enjoy a less stressful journey by letting someone else do the driving.
There's no need to worry about finding a parking space.
It reduces congestion in towns and cities.
Using public transport is cheaper than owning and operating a car.
No more sitting in traffic jams in rush-hour thanks to bus lanes and other bus priority measures.
It reduces your carbon footprint.

Staying safe

Public transport in the UK is a very safe option for lots of people. With effective CCTV now commonplace, crime on public transport is rare.⁸ However, there are a few things you can keep in mind to ensure you and your peers stay safe while using Wigan's public transport network.

Plan your journey and try to let someone know your plan and your expected time of arrival.
Keep your belongings with you, making sure bags are fully closed and you know where valuable items, like your phone, wallet, and keys, are at all times.
Avoid wearing headphones in busy stations, this will help you to stay aware of your surroundings.
If you spot any unattended items or suspicious behaviour, report it to a member of staff or text the British Transport Police on 61016.

Find out more On how to plan your journey through the Bee Network