The London Cycling Campaign, the world’s largest urban cycling organisation, sees the congestion charge as an opportunity for people who live and work in London to discover the advantages, pleasures and benefits of cycling. There is no congestion charge for bikes and cyclists can avoid traffic and enjoy a stress free trip to work or to the shops.

The "Friend on a Bike" campaign offers people in London practical help if they want to try cycling. The campaign highlights the fact that everyone who chooses to cycle can avoid the congestion charge and avoid traffic congestion. They can also enjoy a relaxed way to travel, get fit, improve their health, save time and save money.

Increased cycle use benefits not only those who choose to ride bikes but also everyone else in London and the advantages go beyond the congestion charge zone. Bikes occupy less space on the roads than cars and many cyclists avoid major through-roads altogether by using cycle routes on side streets. More cycle journeys means not only fewer cars on the road but also less pressure on public transport.

But a better environment for cyclists and pedestrians is necessary. In Hammersmith, according to HFCyclists, there is a lot of discussion about the problem of cycling on pavements when the roadways are dangerous. Particular
concerns are Hammersmith Bridge and Hammersmith Broadway. HFcyclists want to see the roadways made safe for cyclists.

At Hammersmith Broadway the gyratory system is intimidating for cyclists and pedestrians. Some measures for a pavement route that incorporates a temporary link to help cyclists should be in place by March 2003.

On the Gyratory there will be advanced stop lines. Most of the effort is going into an East - West off-road route on the south side of the Broadway. It uses a dismount section through a pedestrian subway to get across the Fulham Palace Road (as a temporary link).

HFCyclists also see a need for surface level crossings on the south side of Hammersmith Broadway. That is between the Broadway Centre, the Apollo and the Ark. This would also allow cyclists to cross the Fulham Palace Road.

Along the riverside Malls there is the problem of inconsiderate cycling. One suggestion is a "dismount when busy" policy. Another is having official shared use as successfully trialled in Kensington Gardens with Pedestrian priority signs. HFCyclists wants to push for the Council to give safe routes on the road, and where cyclists want to go and do go, "rather than their idea of what is good for the community".

Cycle thefts are also a major issue. Ben Taylor (see our Forum) is still looking for a Silver Specialized Sirrus A1 Mens hybrid and a Black mens mountain bike stolen at the beginning of the month.


HFCyclists Web site

London Cycling Campaign Web site