With around 55,000 staff and students travelling to campus during a typical week, commuting plays a huge role in everyday life at The University of Manchester. Whether it’s sitting in traffic, dashing for a delayed train, squeezing onto a packed tram, or battling a surprise Manchester rain shower on your bike ride to work, the journey to campus can have a real impact on our time, money, wellbeing and stress levels. It also plays an important role in the University’s environmental impact. 

 At The University of Manchester, we want to help people make commuting cheaper, healthier, easier and more sustainable, and maybe even a little more enjoyable too. 

That’s why, on Thursday 23 April, the University hosted its first Active Commuter Fair in University Place Square, bringing together expert organisations, local partners and practical support to help staff and students discover smarter ways to travel. 

Visitors could get free bike maintenance from Dr. Bike, test ride brand-new e-bikes, browse pre-loved bikes for sale, and enjoy free physio and yoga sessions from UoM Sport to soothe the aches and pains that can come with active travel. Northern Rail and the Bee Network were also on hand to share advice on ticket savings, discounts and travel incentives for those using the bus or train. 

The event also marked the launch of the Active Commuter Community a new staff network for those who walk, wheel, run or cycle to work. The community offers a chance to swap tips, meet like-minded colleagues, support one another and help shape the future of active travel at the University. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, an occasional walker or simply looking for ways to make your commute work better for you, the community can help. 

• Want to know more about sustainable travel, active commuting or future events? Contact es@manchester.ac.uk.