Commenting on the £2 billion cycling initiative announced by the Prime Minister this evening1, Edmund King, AA president, says; “As a third of drivers said they would cycle, walk or run more after lockdown these proposals should be broadly welcomed to improve safety for all road users.
“The improvements in air quality during the crisis should encourage local councils to build dedicated cycle routes, away from traffic where possible, and create ‘park & pedal’ schemes to encourage active travel into town centres for those that live further away. Half of drivers who cycle (48%) say that the cycle provisions provided by their local council are “bad”, according to a study by the AA2. The survey of more than 18,000 drivers found that three in 10 drivers (31%) rode a bike with 2% taking up cycling for the first time during the coronavirus crisis3.
“Getting road space balance for all forms of travel is essential so that deliveries, emergency services, disabled drivers, shoppers and buses are not hindered from conducting their crucial roles as well as promoting active travel.
“A commitment to Bikeability training for both children and adults is a step in the right direction although we would still like to see road safety on the school curriculum.”
*Article Source aa.com
