Pandemic-induced changes and improved bike infrastructure have contributed to the impressive growth of cycling as a mode share.
The popularity of cycling grew by 20 percent between 2019 and 2023, according to a report from Travel in London noted in an article for Momentum Magazine by Ron Johnson.
According to Johnson, “The pandemic-induced changes, such as hybrid working practices, have left a lasting impact on commuter cycling volumes, particularly in central London.”
Aside from a growth in trips, cycling patterns changed in other ways. Cyclists in London are making shorter trips and traveling more at off-peak hours. Santander Cycles, the city’s bike share program, saw a 5 percent increase in demand in 2022, and an e-scooter pilot program has provided over 3 million rides.
Infrastructure is likely a contributing factor to the growth. “The Cycling Action Plan 2, published in June 2023, aims to have 40% of Londoners living within 400 meters of the strategic cycle network by 2030. As of November 2023, 24.2% of Londoners already lived within this proximity, up from 21.9% in 2022 and a mere 5% in 2016.”
Read the full story: London cycling numbers up a whopping 20% since the pandemic
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