Cycling
Local Authorities should recognise cyclists as an integral part of – not additional to - the traffic on our highways. We support policies to increase the number of journeys made by bicycle and reduce the number of short journeys made by car (particularly those of less than 2 miles). To achieve this we recognise the importance of creating an environment which accommodates and supports cycling.
We are committed to full integration between all modes of transport,
including walking and cycling:
- We will promote a comprehensive ‘national strategy for cycling’, delivered through a new Department for Environment, Energy and Transport.
- We would introduce new Planning Policy Guidance for cycling, including a National Cycle Network and a London Cycle Network, to ensure that planning proposals take cycling routes into account by law and for best practice to be taken into consideration. Our statutory guidance would require local authorities to include cycling and walking within their Local Transport Plans.
Liberal Democrats understand that many people are put off cycling because
they are fearful of riding in traffic. To help overcome this,
we believe it is right that Local Authorities should have the power to impose 20
mph speed limits in urban and residential areas.
Good quality cycle training is also important, both for children and
adults. We need to improve people’s perceptions of the
benefits of cycling because statistics show that the more people cycle, the
safer it becomes. We would encourage young
people to cycle regularly and require local authorities to develop “School
Travel Plans” to increase the number of children who cycle or walk to school,
improving safety. Children cycling to school get fit for life
but it must be safe. Fewer school-run car journeys would mean
less pollution, less congestion and fewer road deaths so we encourage a national
programme of Safe Routes to School with calmed traffic, safe pavements and good
lighting.
We are also committed to encouraging the growth of cycling as a sports
and leisure activity. National sports policy must be guided
by promoting social well-being, enjoyment and choice.
On the 23rd
May Willie Rennie led a Westminster Hall debate on cycling you can read the full
debate here
