Mayor encourages people to leave the car at home as Active Travel Challenge 2026 launched in North
7 May 2026
Individuals, organisations and businesses across the North West can register now to take part in the 2026 Active Travel Challenge – a free online activity encouraging people to walk, cycle, run, or use public transport for everyday journeys throughout the month of June.
To support healthier, greener travel choices, Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairi McHugh, was joined by partners to launch the 2026 Active Travel Challenge for participants in the North West.
This year’s challenge comes off the back of a successful 2025 initiative, which saw its highest level of participation since 2019. More than 1,600 people across Northern Ireland signed up, collectively logging in excess of 27,000 journeys, saving over 18,000kg of CO2 and over £22,000 in travel costs during the month-long challenge.
Mayor McHugh said: “I'm delighted to support the launch of the 2026 Active Travel Challenge. I would encourage people across the City and District to consider leaving the car at home this June and consider healthier, more sustainable ways of getting around.
“Our extensive greenway network and Translink’s frequent services around the City and District mean we have more travel alternatives to the car than ever. Even small changes to our travel routine can have a hugely positive impact on our health, our environment and our communities and this challenge is the perfect impetus to begin that process.”
The challenge is delivered in collaboration by Translink, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans), Public Health Agency (PHA), Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast City Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Western Health and Social Care Trust, with support from the Department for Infrastructure.
Throughout June, participants are encouraged to leave the car at home in favour of walking, cycling, public transport, or other active travel options for commuting, school runs, shopping trips, and leisure activities, as the initiative supports healthier and greener travel choices across Derry~Londonderry and the wider region.
Alan Young, Service Delivery Manager, Translink, said: "The Active Travel Challenge continues to go from strength to strength, and it's fantastic to see so many people and organisations across Northern Ireland embracing more sustainable ways of getting around.
"Last year was our best year since 2019, which gives us real momentum heading into this year's challenge. Every journey switched from car to public transport is a step towards cleaner air, lower emissions, and healthier communities, which is exactly the kind of lasting change we want to inspire. We'd encourage everyone across the North West to get involved this June and see for themselves just how easy and rewarding making the switch to active travel can be."
Maurice Meehan, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement, Public Health Agency, said: "The Active Travel Challenge gives everyone the opportunity to build more movement into their daily routines, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. Incorporating activities like walking, wheeling or cycling, alongside using public transport, is a simple way to improve fitness, boost mood and take positive steps towards better long-term health. Choosing these options can also help reduce emissions and improve air quality, creating healthier environments for everyone."
Claire Pollock, Head of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust Northern Ireland, said: “The Active Travel Challenge is a great starting point for lasting change. By taking part in the Challenge throughout June people are encouraged to leave the car behind and travel more actively and to enjoy the benefits that brings. People often find it’s easier and more enjoyable than expected. By making small changes, our aim is to motivate more people to develop healthy and sustainable travel habits. Whether it’s walking or cycling for shorter journeys, or combining these with public transport for longer trips, these small changes can make a big difference to how we travel every day.”
The initiative is open to everyone of all ages and abilities. It also presents a valuable opportunity for businesses, community organisations, universities, and local authorities to engage staff, students, and members, encouraging friendly competition, supporting wellbeing, and making a collective contribution to reducing carbon emissions.
Registration is free and open now online. Participants can register as individuals or teams and simply log their active journeys online, for a chance to win a range of rewards including retail vouchers, travel passes, and much more.
To find out more and register for the 2026 Active Travel Challenge today, visit atc.getmeactive.org.uk and follow all the action on social media using #GetMeActiveNI.