Encouraging Cycling in Greater Nottingham: where are we and some pointers for the future Dr Jo Cleary Sustainable Transport Consultant

Background Nottingham has a strong historical association with cycling: manufacture, leisure, utility. Has been at the forefront of pioneering initiatives to promote sustainable transport. Feeling that, in recent years, cycling improvements haven’t kept pace with measures to facilitate other modes. Willingness to review and learn from emerging best practice elsewhere.

Summary of tasks Review of relevant background literature and resources (hard copy and web based). Consultation with a range of interested / knowledgeable individuals (City, County, RideWise, Ucycle, Pedals, other cycle users). A tour of the city by bicycle. Reference to background knowledge (of Nottingham and elsewhere).

Key topics Dedicated cycle infrastructure (routes) Signage and way-finding Interface with public transport Soft measures, including Citycard cycle facilities

Infrastructure: age of centrepieces?

Infrastructure: rectifying poor design

Infrastructure: what it was like before

Infrastructure design: consistency?

Infrastructure: reallocation of road space

Invisible infrastructure

And not so invisible!

Infrastructure: directness

Infrastructure: routes for utility…

…or leisure?

Way finding: victim of de-cluttering?

Way finding: need not be obtrusive

Way finding: inconsistencies between map and ground

Way finding: city centre confusions

Way finding: city centre access

Public transport: stunning strides in levels of provision

Public transport: bikes and buses

Public transport: bikes and trams

Public transport: bikes and trams (details)

Public transport: bikes and trams (future plans)

How Queens Walk looked before

Public transport: cycle hubs

Soft measures: Citycard cycle hire

Soft measures: TiC support

Soft measures: partnership working

Strengths and opportunities Multiple organisations and individuals with wide and valuable knowledge and enthusiasm. Strong high level political support. Other sustainable modes well catered for. Growing popularity of cycling. Big bang for your buck with investment in cycling. Potential funding, particularly for the innovative and ambitious.

Challenges

Recommendations: be bold

Recommendations: invest in quality

Recommendations: create a cohesive and legible network

Recommendations: integrate really well with other modes

Recommendations: challenge taboos

Useful references London Cycling Design Standards (updated) LTN 2/08 Cycle Infrastructure Design Sustrans’ Technical Guidelines (plus Inspiring Infrastructure) CTC (Cycle-friendly design and planning) Cycling England archive (Design Checklist) Manual for Streets (1 and 2) Manchester Cycling Design Guidance and Standards

Thank you! Cleary Stevens Consulting