London unveils plans for new cycle network
14 January 2014
by Richard Forster
London is seeking public comment on its plans for a draft cycle network for central London, known as the Central London Grid, which proposes that a number of streets be closed to other traffic and that cyclists use 97 kilometres of backstreets dubbed Quietways.
“We are creating a new network of routes for a new kind of cyclist: routes for people who want to cycle slowly, in their ordinary clothes, away from most of the traffic,” said the Mayor of London Boris Johnson announcing the plans just before Christmas. “These are your secret cycling passages through London, taking you everywhere you need to go, directly and easily, using routes you might never know existed until we showed you.”
The seven Central London boroughs together with the City of London, The Royal Parks, the Canal & River Trust and Transport for London (TfL) have worked together to publish the Grid. Many of the new Quietway routes will run parallel to Tube lines or bus routes so that cyclists will know where they go. A Circle Line Quietway and a Victoria Line Quietway are among the routes that have been proposed.
A number of superhighway and other main-road routes will also form part of the Grid, most fully or semi-separated from traffic (with solid kerbs or traffic wands) where they run along busy roads.
“This is a promising start, but it is a first draft and we are looking forward to the views and ideas of the cycling community, residents, local business and anyone with an interest,” said Andrew Gilligan, Cycling Commissioner for London. “Further changes will then be made in discussions with our partners in the boroughs.”
Some one-way streets will be made two-way for cyclists. Intimidating and difficult junctions will be improved. A study will be launched into traffic restrictions on one very busy main road corridor where there is no room for segregation and no Quietway alternative.
The proposed Quietway routes are aimed at those who would like to cycle now, but are put off by having to do it on busy roads. The long-term purpose is to broaden the demographic mix, and change the culture of London cycling.
“The Central London Grid will make it easier than ever for people to start cycling in London,” said Ben Plowden, Director of Strategy and Planning at TfL Surface Transport. “The map published shows our early thoughts on possible routes and while these may change, we would welcome thoughts and suggestions from everyone on the proposals we are sharing.”
