Mark Lazarowicz MP has highlighted progress in Edinburgh to make cycling safer and more attractive but stressed much needs to be done if the UK is to emulate countries like the Netherlands or Denmark.
The North & Leith MP spoke in a Westminster debate on cycling policy yesterday. He said: “The Pedal on Parliament each year shows just how much enthusiasm there is here in Edinburgh for cycling and the City Council deserves praise for its commitment through funding and other initiatives.
“There is still a long way to go however with cycling only making up 2% of all journeys in the UK each year compared to 27% of those in the Netherlands and 19% of journeys in Denmark.
“Cycling has real benefits to offer, it’s healthy, cuts the number of cars on the roads and with it pollution and accidents but we need to integrate it fully into transport infrastructure and make sure funding is there to do it.”
In 2012 City of Edinburgh Council made a commitment to increase cycling’s share of the transport budget by 1% each year and it has stuck to it: from 5% two years ago it now stands at 7%. The city council is also consulting on the extension of 20mph zones in Edinburgh.
Mark Lazarowicz’s speech can be found in full here.
NOTE: If you’re interested in cycling, walking and sustainable transport issues don’t miss Inverleith Neighbourhood Partnership’s community conference on Thursday 30 October. Details below:
