Speakers and campaign groups were focussed on highlighting the substantial evidence which demonstrates that improving conditions for cycling goes hand in hand with creating safer surroundings for pedestrians and improving public transport and air quality. Low traffic neighbourhoods enhance community and diversity on the streets and improve mental and physical health.
Evidence demonstrated:
• The real danger on our roads comes from motor vehicles. This danger has not been reduced; instead we have removed other road users
• Creating safe conditions for cyclists means latent demand is unlocked and more people cycle. If cycling feels like an extreme sport, they won’t
• Improvements in cycling infrastructure in Copenhagen led to a 33% reduction in traffic
• 11% of drivers on Quietway 1 now cycle. Quietways are popular
• Changing road layout in Salisbury Road, SE17 led to a 71% reduction in vehicle traffic, an 83% increase in walking and expanded green space
• Around 15% of traffic evaporates when the emphasis on public space shifts from vehicles to people. In other words, traffic isn’t displaced but people change to healthier modes of travel
• Emergency services do not complain about low traffic measures. Their complaint in fact is that sat navs are not updated
• Focussing on moving people and goods rather than vehicles maximises efficiency
• People who are not in cars use shops and spend locally, even in adverse weather. Footfall goes up
• Places good for people attract business and provide jobs
• Streets become places to spend time, not just thoroughfares. Children play in streets again
• Improving streets for people is politically popular
The themes that keep coming up:
• The need for political vision, leadership and sustained investment
• The importance of complete networks - door to door
• Focus on moving people, not vehicles
• Importance of good design and maintaining infrastructure
• Provision of good quality, affordable public transport
• Air quality
• Enforcement of road rules
• Huge latentdemandfor safe cycling and walking
• Successful schemes are popular and reduce future opposition
• Clear use of language and data so people understand the benefits
We got some ideas about influencing behaviour change:
• Linking up separate campaigns
• Gaining the support of political leaders and a critical mass of local authorities to create active travel zones, clean air zones and safe networks
• Using videos of dangerous driving so parents and residents understand the real risks from which proposedsolutionsarise
• Following up with packs including banners and post cards all emphasising the data and quality of life evidence
• Getting police on board to help with enforcement
• Information packs to help plan routes
• Publicising cycling apps and travel planning apps
• Rewarding engagement, not just distance travelled
SRS was able to attend the conference due to the support of JAPS. Many thanks!
