One tiny silver lining to the dark cloud of COVID-19
Where do you get your love of cycling from? Is it a new thing or have you always cycled?
I’ve been riding a bike for as long as I can remember. My parents didn’t own a car so we cycled everywhere around Bristol and went on cycling holidays, which instilled the cycling bug from an early age. I don’t have a car and never intend to. I can’t understand people’s need to jump in a car for a journey of less than a couple of miles unless they have mobility issues. It’s great that we have the leadership and will to encourage more people onto their feet, or onto a saddle.
Cycling gives me huge independence, and physical and mental well-being. It allows me to survey and explore the ever-changing landscape of the different cities and countries I visit by bike in an intimate, close-up way, which you just don’t get from flying or driving a car.
What would be your advice to residents who want to walk or cycle more?
Use your local park to cycle and gain confidence, where there are cycle paths available. Look up low traffic routes to work and local amenities – you can visit Komoot’s website to find quieter routes then you’ll be confident enough to tackle the main roads.
The great news is that we’re about to roll out an ambitious programme of measures such as pop-up cycle lanes, footway widening, and restricting some local roads to cycle- and pedestrian-only through traffic. So I’d encourage people to put forward their suggestions through the website.
And what impact are the lockdown restrictions having on walking and cycling?
We’re seeing increases in cycling and walking across Lewisham and London which has been great for people’s wellbeing and air quality. It’s really important we maintain conditions that favour travel on foot or by bike.
With restrictions already easing, London’s transport network faces one of the biggest challenges in its history as the two metre rule will only leave capacity for 15 percent of the usual passengers . Therefore it is crucial to serve those who need it, and to create favourable conditions for walking and cycling for those that are able to so do. Local authorities have been instructed by the government to act urgently to implement measures that will help to change travel habits and assist with the recovery.