mjr wrote:Yes, some of the guidance in the UK is first class... but itˋs all guidance and not requirements so it is purely theoretical. More ambitious targets, leadership and signalling is not enough. Legislation of some sort seems necessary to force highways agencies and departments to provide and it is a total failure by this select committee not to point that out.
Plus one.
With regard to shared use of the highways I’d like to see the physical size of cars limited so that more space (width) is available for other road users like cyclists. Let’s get Chelsea Tractors and other overly large cars off of the road, small and medium size cars are perfectly adequate for almost everybody and if you need something bigger for business use or transporting say a large family then apply for a permit.
As part of the planning application process I’d like to see every new domestic property being built being required to have some cycle parking provision before they can have car parking. I believe that new build commercial property already has a cycle parking requirement.
As part of learning to drive a car I’d like to include elements of cycling awareness. Cycling before learning to drive gave me an education and awareness that others would benefit from gaining too. Virtually anyone should be allowed to cycle (no licence needed). However - like passing the Highway Code exam first - before taking a practical car test some suitable basic cycling experience should need to be validated.
Don’t fret, it’s OK to: ride a simple old bike; ride slowly, walk, rest and admire the view; ride off-road; ride in your raincoat; ride by yourself; ride in the dark; and ride one hundred yards or one hundred miles. Your bike and your choices to suit you.