Hannah Cooper: Cycling UK Champion!

Hannah Cooper (left) with members of her family (middle and right)

Hannah Cooper, City councillor and active member of the Bike Worcester community, has been recognised as one of Cycling UK’s Top 100 Women in Cycling for 2024. Her tireless work to improve cycling infrastructure and promote active travel has made her a prominent figure in Worcester’s efforts to create safer and more sustainable streets.

Community Advocacy and Leadership

Hannah is longstanding member of Worcester’s cycling community, helping Bike Worcester to advocate for better infrastructure and encourage more people to take up cycling. Her campaigns focus on addressing common challenges, such as unsafe roads, limited cycle lanes, and a lack of secure bike parking.

Hannah is often spotted on her dutch cargo bike, cycling for every day journeys, as well as with the Bike Bus for her children's school. By running the bike bus, she not only promotes active travel among young people but also raises awareness about the need for safer routes for cyclists of all ages.

Promoting Change in Worcester

In her role as a councillor, Hannah has consistently highlighted the benefits of cycling as a practical and sustainable mode of transport in Council meetings and other functions. She played a vital role in ensuring Worcester's first pump track was built in Battenhall Park, championed Bike Worcester's accessibility campaign leading to removing cycling barriers and ensuring increased bike parking facilities across the city. Voices like Hannah's are crucial to help improve infrastructure and lead to increased cycling rates in the City.

Recognition and Looking Ahead

Hannah’s inclusion in Cycling UK’s Top 100 Women in Cycling celebrates her dedication and impact. For her, the recognition is a chance to emphasise the importance of prioritising active travel in urban development.

“I’m honored to be part of a community that’s driving change,” she said recently. “Cycling isn’t just a personal passion—it’s a way to improve health, reduce congestion, and create a better city for everyone.”

Looking ahead, Hannah plans to continue campaigning for comprehensive cycling infrastructure improvements. Her work demonstrates how grassroots advocacy and public service can combine to promote positive change in local communities.

Hannah’s efforts, both through Bike Worcester and her council role, highlight the power of community-led action in making cities more sustainable and accessible for all.