The UK-wide survey indicated significant demand for an increase of Government spending to ensure safety and accessibility for cyclists.

Consisting of 11,000 people across seven cities in the UK, the study by Sustrans – called the Bike Life Survey - highlighted support for an average annual expenditure of £26 per person; which is in stark contrast to the current figure of £4 per person in England and £9 per person in Scotland.

Of the £300 spent annually per person on Transport, the research found 75% of people believe £26 should be accredited to cycling issues.

The survey was not restricted to cyclists however, with 71% of those who don’t ride bikes saying that more spending on cycling issues would be supported. This figure rose significantly for frequent cyclists to 87%.

 “People want governments to spend more, and say that they would cycle more if it were safer. Now governments must close this gap between current spending and public demand,” reiterated Jason Torrance, policy director at Sustrans.

An increase in cycling spending would in turn benefit the UK overall according to the survey. Three quarters of those who took part believe it would make local communities better places to live and work.

“The message from the public couldn't be clearer: there’s a desire to cycle more, but that a lack of safe places to ride bikes is off ­putting,” explained Mr Torrance.