Cycling shifts into high gear: News release from Cycle Aware Wellington

17 April 2012

The number of people commuting by bicycle has hit a new high in Wellington, council figures show.

The average number of riders entering the CBD in the morning peak has more than doubled since 2006, to 1733 each day.

Cycling advocates say Wellington councils and NZTA must respond by bringing forward planned cycling investments.

CAW spokesperson James Burgess says we need to shift up a gear to keep pace with demand.

"WCC's figures show the number of people cycling continues to grow. Clearly we need to invest in convenient and safe cycling routes to meet public demand."

"Wellingtonians love to bike, but many are put off by our busy roads and a lack of decent cycleways," says Mr Burgess.

"Safe cycleways are a win-win for those cycling and driving. They reduce the conflict between cyclists and drivers - especially at key pinch points on busy urban roads."

Relatively small investments can unleash cycling's potential, he said.

"The good news is that cycling is a cheap date compared to other transport projects."

"We urge NZTA to invest in the Petone to Ngauranga cycleway immediately, not in three to five years time."

Greater Wellington Regional Council should install bike racks on buses in the next three years, not in 2017 as currently proposed, he says.

It's time for Wellington City Council to grow their cycling budget beyond the less than 1% of transport spending it currently allocates.

"Even a small increase would allow for a significant improvement in the level of service for people who cycle, and make Wellington an attractive and safer place to ride."

contact: James Burgess, info@caw.org.nz
Cycle Aware Wellington