Knowledge United Kingdom changemakers explore Dutch cycling transformation 13 May 2026 Cycling News On 11 and 12 May 2026, the Dutch Cycling Embassy welcomed a group of changemakers from across the United Kingdom for a study visit to the Netherlands, exploring how Dutch cities transformed themselves into cycle-friendly environments over the past decades. Which challenges were overcome and how political viewpoints changed over the years. The delegation brought together participants from a wide range of organisations and advocacy groups, all working toward safer, healthier, and more liveable streets in the United Kingdom. Among the participants were representatives from the London Cycling Campaign, Cyclox from Oxford, Action Vision Zero, and the Coalition for Healthy Streets and Active Travel in Oxfordshire. By bringing their own bicycles, participants were able to experience Dutch cycling culture and infrastructure first-hand throughout the visit. Exploring Delft by bicycle On the first day of the visit, participants explored the city of Delft during a cycling tour guided by our own, local inhabitant, Chris Bruntlett. Cycling through the city together highlighted how Delft’s cycling infrastructure connects neighbourhoods, public spaces, and daily destinations in a safe and intuitive way. Learning from Utrecht’s transformation The programme, organised by the Dutch Cycling Embassy and guided by Shelley Bontje and Wiel Wijnen, continued in Utrecht with a presentation by Herbert Tiemen from the Municipality of Utrecht. Herbert shared the story of Utrecht’s transformation from a car-oriented city in the 1970s and 1980s into one of the world’s leading cycling cities today. As Senior Policy Advisor, he reflected on the long-term vision, policy decisions, and gradual changes that helped shape Utrecht’s mobility culture over time. Participants engaged in lively discussions on topics such as balancing cycling infrastructure with emergency services, connecting wider urban areas through safe cycling networks, and the effects of reducing car parking on local businesses. Exchange and collaboration The visit concluded at the office of the Dutch Cycling Embassy, where Eva Groeneveld shared the story of the upcoming and current work of the Dutch Cycling Union (Fietsersbond) where she currently works as a Strategic Policy Advisor. Her perspective as someone who recently moved from the United Kingdom to the Netherlands also was a great add-on. Together, we discussed the historical success of the Dutch cycling movement, current mobility challenges in both countries, and the importance of international exchange and collaboration. The conversations showed that while contexts may differ, many of the challenges and ambitions are shared. We would like to extend a special thank you to Herbert Tiemen and the Municipality of Utrecht for sharing their knowledge and experiences with the group. We would also like to warmly thank Eva Groeneveld for her valuable support and contribution to the programme.