Cycling Superhighways Raising Debate

In the summer of 2010, London launched a new program that had established bright blue bike lanes known as 'Cycle Superhighways' alongside main roads. These initiatives are intended to provide the quickest routes into the city centre.

1 minute read

November 30, 2011, 9:00 AM PST

By David Zeetser

The ‘Cycle Superhighways' are built ‘to improve cycling conditions for people who already commute by bike and to encourage those who don't to take to pedal power'. According to Joe Peach, recent studies by Transport for London (TfL) have found that 80% of journeys taken along the routes are cyclists commuting to and from work.

Peach states that "the TfL has stated its belief that bicycle networks can ‘strengthen London's economy by improving access to local town centres'. Whilst numerous studies suggest economic benefits from developing a city's bicycle network, the flaw in TfL's logic is that London's more recent bicycle network developments exist to improve access to the city centre, not the town centres that surround it."

FULL STORY: London's Bicycle Network: Good for Commuters, Bad for Communities

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 in This Big City

Community / Economic Development Land Use Transportation Urban Development Europe London Transport for London View More

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