What’s our vision for cycling on Hayling?
Below is what we wrote back in 2020, but time has moved on. We’re working on a new vision for 2022, and to focus on actual infrastructure we need.
So please tell us now what YOU think should be our new vision for cycling on Hayling!
Our vision for a cycle-friendly Hayling
Let’s not beat about the bush. We can’t say that Hayling is a cycle-friendly island until we’ve hit all these targets:
- Safe and pleasant to cycle anywhere on the island and into Havant
- Safe for parents to cycle with children of 3 and up
- Safe cycling for unescorted children of 12 and up
- All-weather, smooth cycling to anywhere
- Traffic-free cycle or shared paths everywhere there is fast-moving traffic
- Quick and safe crossing at junctions
- Direct routes suitable for commuting, not huge diversions
- Routes to all schools, shops, health centres, leisure and community areas
- Safe places for children and adults to learn and practice
- Good signs and maps to show people where to go
- Plenty of secure bike parking where people want to stop
- Most school-children walk or cycle to school most of the time
And those things probably mean:
- 30 mph maximum speed limit everywhere on the island
- 20 mph speed limits in all residential roads
- Automated enforcement of speed limits
- Traffic calming, to discourage speeding
- Home Zones to claim the streets back for people, not cars
Are these achievable?
Yes, they’re being achieved all over Britain, and all over the world.
- In Holland, trips up to 5 miles are just as likely to be by bike as by car, and about half of Dutch school-children ride to school every day. The Dutch average lifespan is believed to be half a year longer because of it, and their health-span, when they’re healthy enough to enjoy life, is 2 years longer.
- Many British cities are following Holland – London and Manchester leading the charge. Some London boroughs are now becoming mini-Hollands for cycling.
- 94% of Portsmouth roads have had 20 mph residential speed limits since 2008, and saw 22% fall in accidents.
What do we need?
- Permission from landowners and councils
- Community backing
- Plans
- Money, possibly lots, but not all at once
- Patience 🙁
If you agree with all that, sign up at cyclehayling.org/signup.
Even better, join our campaign committee.
Now is the time! If not now, when?
