Professor Colin Pooley of Lancaster University will outline findings from the pioneering and controversial Understanding Walking and Cycling research study. Edinburgh Council leader Cllr Andrew Burns will respond, followed by a panel discussion. All welcome!!
Following on from their research, the project team [from Lancaster, Leeds and Oxford Brookes Universities] made seven policy recommendations, including…
- fully segregated cycle routes on main roads in urban areas
- restrictions on car parking, speeds and access on other roads
- changing the system of legal liability, to protect cyclists and pedestrians (the most vulnerable road users) as in most of Europe
- using planning legislation to ensure facilities are more local and to deter out-of-town centres
- campaigns to promote cycling and walking as ‘normal,’ not just for the super-fit or the dedicated.
Three points underlie these policy proposals…
- Changing attitudes is not enough. The conditions must be changed so that people feel safe and comfortable cycling or walking
- Do not base policies on the views of existing walkers and cyclists – talk also to those who don’t walk or cycle
- Physical infrastructure is important, but is not sufficient. A total environment welcoming to cycling is vital, encompassing policies from areas such as housing, health, planning and education.
Click here for the full summary of key findings and recommendations [pdf 2.4MB]. For a fuller description see the book Promoting Walking and Cycling, based on the research.
Public Meeting Details
- Monday 24 March
- 7.30. Open 6.45 for coffee, stall, exhibition and chat
- Augustine United Church, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh
- More info: mknottenbelt1[AT]gmail.com 07501 381018
- If you’d like a poster, click on the graphic to enlarge it.
Also at the meeting: the winning entries from our Summer 2013 competition, Cycling with a Purpose will be on display.