Safe Speed Forums

By Gordon Clarke – 17 October 2014

In the wake of Belfast's Changing Gear conference, there's no denying the buzz around cycling as more people realise the bike is a healthy, reliable and affordable alternative to driving.

There are three elements needed to transform Belfast into a cycling city – safe routes, slower speeds and education for cyclists and drivers.

The city needs a network of cycle routes free from or low in car traffic. This will allow people to make safe journeys from their home to their destination. Only a series of well-connected routes that weave through the city will ensure the bike is a realistic alternative to driving.

Reducing traffic speed is the other essential ingredient for success.

The proposed introduction of a pilot 20mph zone is welcome, but the area concerned in the city centre is limited. At the very least, it needs to cover the area within the inner ring road.

With safety concerns the number one reason why people decide against cycling, slower speeds will make all the difference when the new bike share scheme arrives in April.

It is also vital that we give people the skills they need to cycle safely. Habits formed in childhood are habits for a lifetime, so every child must have on-road cycle training, ensuring they'll grow up to become confident, safe and enthusiastic cyclists. As it stands, half of children want to cycle to school but very few do, so more training is essential.

Couple that with education for drivers so everyone can share the road harmoniously and it's a recipe for success.

Everyone should contribute to the future of cycling in Belfast by responding to the government's Bicycle Strategy consultation by November 21.

The time to act is now – let's get started.


•Gordon Clarke is Northern Ireland director of the charity Sustrans, which encourages people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for everyday journeys