Back in the 60's I lived in Highbury north London and worked in Smithfield Market, I always rode my bike, it was easy, and much quicker than the bus or car.
Many people in London have more than 3 young children, who go to different schools, the parents work long hours as well, so cycling isnt always an option. The LTNs have diverted all traffic to the main roads and have made it extremely hard for residents who have to drive for a work to get in and out of their areas. Where there was 5 routes to get out from, there is now 1 which is a main road, i.e. Seven Sisters road in Islington. causing traffic jams where cars and buses sit for a long time, all the while they are still running, causing more polution. Bike theives are very common in London and bikes arent cheap these days. There is basically no roads to go into now because of the ammount of closures and some people arent physically able to cycle or even walk for long periods of time. This is NOT the common opinion of londoners, LTN's werent even discussed with residents: signs and planters appeared overnight while we were in lockdown. There was even a protest a few months back from many Islingtonites against these measures, and the Council hasnt done a thing. When you live in a working class neighborhood, this makes it extremely hard. All the while, there is the issue of constant TFL strikes and overcrowded public transport and lack of public safety whilst travelling.
Back in the 60's I lived in Highbury north London and worked in Smithfield Market, I always rode my bike, it was easy, and much quicker than the bus or car.
theft is a big issue
Hardly ever see a bike in the outer suburbs.
Many people in London have more than 3 young children, who go to different schools, the parents work long hours as well, so cycling isnt always an option. The LTNs have diverted all traffic to the main roads and have made it extremely hard for residents who have to drive for a work to get in and out of their areas. Where there was 5 routes to get out from, there is now 1 which is a main road, i.e. Seven Sisters road in Islington. causing traffic jams where cars and buses sit for a long time, all the while they are still running, causing more polution. Bike theives are very common in London and bikes arent cheap these days. There is basically no roads to go into now because of the ammount of closures and some people arent physically able to cycle or even walk for long periods of time. This is NOT the common opinion of londoners, LTN's werent even discussed with residents: signs and planters appeared overnight while we were in lockdown. There was even a protest a few months back from many Islingtonites against these measures, and the Council hasnt done a thing. When you live in a working class neighborhood, this makes it extremely hard. All the while, there is the issue of constant TFL strikes and overcrowded public transport and lack of public safety whilst travelling.
Such an important campaign - the more people who chose to cycle, the greater the impact on climate is reduced. It’s quite simple really!
Really good campaign.
Love this! Great to hear about people's experiences starting cycling.
Most of London is flat and it also rains less than elsewhere in the UK so it's a no brainer really.