-
A fifth of cyclists plan to move from segregated cycle
paths to the road
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More than a quarter will choose the bike over the car for
shorter journeys
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AA calls for councils to strike a balance between cycling
infrastructure and recovering local economies
Half of cyclists (48%*) say that the cycle provisions
provided by their local cancel are “bad”, according to a study by
the AA.
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 crisis.
One in 12 young adults (18-24 year olds) lead the charge
for new cyclists whereas a fifth (19%) were infrequent cyclists
before the lockdown and one in 10 (10%) are regular cyclists. A
further one in 20 drivers said that they are considering taking
up cycling.
The study comes as local authorities across England begin
to spend £45 million** of the £225 million emergency active
travel grants provided during the covid-19 crisis. The remaining
balance will be given to councils by the end of the year. The
coronavirus has also seen a spike in bike sales***.
“I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride it where I
like” Bicycle Race, Queen (1978)
Due to quieter roads throughout the lockdown, a fifth of
cyclists who were previously using dedicated and segregated cycle
lanes have now moved onto the road and plan to remain cycling on
the street.
The study also found that more than a quarter (28%) plan to
use their bikes more for shorter journeys when they would have
previously got into their car.
With cycling being seen as a popular alternative to buses,
the AA is warning drivers to be more vigilant of new riders on
the roads, as well as asking councils to strike a balance in new
road layouts and infrastructure. As High Streets across the
country open their doors, efforts to encourage footfall could be
dampened if local authorities make it difficult for shoppers and
deliveries to get into town.
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said; “As
public transport continues to be discouraged, a mixture of
driving, cycling and walking has been the order of the day as
people move around.
“Cyclists have enjoyed quieter roads during lockdown and
many want to continue to enjoy this freedom. Regardless of how we
use our roads, we all have a responsibility to one another to
ensure we reach our destinations safely. Looking out for each
other and allowing more space, especially when overtaking, is
key.
“The £45 million immediate investment is good news, but
councils should think carefully about how to use the cash.
Improving junctions, allowing proper space for cyclists and
joining up existing routes are a good start.
“However, there needs to be a balanced approach to ‘pop up
cycle lanes’ or closures to ensure that key deliveries and
services are not hindered. With the economy already in a
fragile state, local and independent retailers need all the
support they can get.”
ends
NOTES TO EDITORS
* Populus received 18,129 responses from AA members to its
online poll between 12th – 19th May 2020. Of the 18,129
respondents, 5,582 said they cycled. Populus is a member of the
British Polling Council and abides by its rules.
** https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/emergency-active-travel-fund-local-transport-authority-allocations/emergency-active-travel-fund-total-indicative-allocations
*** https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2020/may/23/two-wheels-good-bike-sales-soar-as-uk-takes-to-cycling
