New guide provides evidence base to advocate cycling

13.40 | 15 January 2020 | | 4 comments


A new guide has been published to support urban communities in their efforts to increase levels of cycling.

The best practice guide aims to be a valuable source of information for organisations ‘eager to create road conditions that will lead to greater numbers of cyclists’.

Produced by a partnership comprising FedEx Express, the Global Alliance of NGOs for Road Safety and the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), the guide provides examples from two countries that have ‘successfully developed strong cycling cultures’ – the Netherlands and Denmark.

It delivers a comprehensive overview of the factors which have enabled these countries to increase levels of cycling – including behaviour change, infrastructure, education, the legal framework and enforcement.

The guide says cycling should be ‘an essential part of an integrated urban development and transport policy’.

Lotte Brondum, executive director, Global Alliance of NGOs for Road Safety, said “How safe people feel is an important factor in the mode of transport that they choose. 

“This guide will be useful for the people on the ground — the road safety NGOs in their work for safer streets. 

“They know the realities of their cities’ streets and they are well-placed to help governments put citizens at the heart of mobility interventions. 

“This guide will give them the evidence base and guidance they need to advocate for measures that will help save lives.”

Rock Sherman, vice president road network Europe, FedEx Express, said: “One of the most striking links found between cycling and safety is the potential for safer cycling measures to positively and directly influence the safety of our roads for all users. 

“This document will guide any organisation looking to use the examples of Amsterdam and Copenhagen to promote safe cycling and improve road safety for everyone.”


 

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    As a cycling activist I have no doubt Hugh Jones is partly correct in saying lack of infrastructure is a cop out argument for some not wanting to give up their cars. At the same time however, there is abundant evidence providing good cycling infrastructure does persuade significant numbers of people out of cars. That said, it is important not to lose sight of the importance of trying to make the actual road environment comfortable for cycling, where it can be. Cycling UK argues that should be the priority. There cannot be segregated facilities everywhere and the more cyclists on the roads the safer on-road cycling is.

    Hugh:If hills are a problem why not consider an electric bike?


    John Thompson, LOWESTOFT
    Agree (2) | Disagree (3)
    --1

    No Paul – those who already cycle are obviously not the target (what would be the point?) – it’s those who don’t already cycle that are being encouraged. Realistically, it is going to be easier for some than for others. I would suggest getting people to initially ride for pleasure and enjoyment and if they want to, consider cycling for necessary journeys instead of their motorised vehicle. I ride for pleasure, in good weather, when I feel like it, but whichever route I go, I have to negotiate a long, steep gradient which is why I usually opt for the car.


    Hugh Jones
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    0

    Hugh – those of us who cycle anyway are not the target. There are a few occasions where motorised transport has major advantages but intelligent road adaptation can make cycling the easy option for many trips. I gave up Car Club membership as a year went past without using it.


    Paul Luton, Teddington
    Agree (2) | Disagree (2)
    0

    Is it conceivable that traffic conditions, pollution and a lack of cycling infrastructure are simply used as excuses by some, whose conscience perhaps tells them they should take up cycling for the health benefits, but don’t really want to? A bit like signing up to a gym in the New year or pursuing a new hobby at a night-school class and then finding excuses not to go once the initial enthusiasm has worn off. I think I’ve said before – those who want to cycle will do so anyway, as they already have done.

    Promoting cycling as a leisure activity is fine, but as an alternative to motorised transport which, let’s face it, does have advantages, is much harder.


    Hugh Jones, Cheshire
    Agree (4) | Disagree (13)
    --9

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