I own a car, but cycle every day on my way to work.  It’s only a short journey from my home, but it highlights just how badly Southampton needs to invest in its infrastructure.  We need to make walking and cycling journeys safer by investing in infrastructure that puts people first, not cars.  We need to provide training (not just bike handling, but maintenance skills) to those cyclists who feel they would benefit from it.  And we need to publicise the benefits of cycling, walking, and using public transport.  All the Space for Cycling campaign’s recommendations should be adopted.

My personal view is that infrastructure is critical.  For many people cycling to work is likely to be cheaper, quicker, healthier than driving, but unless they feel safe, the car will remain the preferred option.

From the outset, I would push for segregated cycle lanes on all roads with a speed limit of more than 30mph, with parallel paths were space allows; residential areas to have 20mph speed limits with no-through roads or one way systems as appropriate; the re-design of dangerous junctions with phased light signals; and an increase in secure cycle storage facilities in the city centre.

Alongside this, I would push for greater cooperation with neighbouring local authorities.  Even if Southampton had the best cycling infrastructure in the country, but if those visiting from the New Forest, Test Valley, Eastleigh, or beyond feel compelled to drive in, then there will be only minimal improvements.  A joined up approach to cycling routes, plus cooperation to develop multi-modal (walk, cycle, bus, train, etc) transport routes will help to reduce the number of cars on the road.

Lastly, I would campaign for planners to ensure that any new developments – either residential or commercial – are designed and built with cycling, walking, and public transport in mind.

Once again, thanks for asking my views on cycling in Southampton.