Create post-Covid 'golden age' of cycling, ministers urged

Cycling charity Sustrans has urged the government to create a ‘golden age of cycling’ by capitalising on the surge of interest brought about by lockdown.

At one point last year, almost four times as many journeys as usual were being taken by bike, but usage has gone back to normal levels since then. Road journeys taken by cyclists surged during the first lockdown last year, reaching a high point of 3.84 times the normal level on 5 May.

Conversely, car journeys, which fell as low as 23 per cent of the usual level, are now almost back to normal.

Sustrans says cyclists need to feel safer and wants more 20mph zones and more effective cycle lanes. Rachel White, head of public affairs at Sustrans, said that cycle lanes should be planned carefully, with more put in place where they work.

Sustrans also argues that the default speed limit in built-up areas of the UK should be lowered from 30mph to 20mph. It is currently up to local authorities to decide whether to introduce 20mph zones.

Details on the government’s ‘ambitious plans to boost walking and cycling’ are expected to be revealed soon. At present, eight areas of Wales are trialling default 20mph limits in residential areas, ahead of a national rollout in 2023. The Scottish government is also developing a ‘national strategy’ on the issue. Northern Ireland's government has introduced part-time 20mph limits outside more than 100 schools.

Rachel White wrote for Government Business about the benefits that emergency measures to help pedestrians and cyclists to travel safely could have on our health and the health of our communities here.