Data shows overwhelming success of the “Family Cycle Lane”
Hounslow Cycling Campaign welcomes the release of Council’s and TfL data that highlight the overwhelming success of Cycleway 9 in Chiswick. Hounslow Council and TfL took action at the start of the pandemic to transform cycling in Chiswick and the data supports their bold decision.
Seeing more families and children cycling to and from Chiswick High Road shows how important segregated cycle lanes are – allowing young and old to go to school, to work, shop and exercise. We are really pleased that safety data from the Metropolitan Police show that the cycle lanes have also made it safer, reducing collisions and injuries to people cycling.
TfL has also released the findings of independent market research of residents that shows that there is a silent majority in support of the cycle lanes in Chiswick High Road. Despite heated local debate, this backs up our view that everyone who is using the cycle lanes is a voice of support that is greater than the often noisy campaign in opposition. We urge the council to think carefully about how they get a balanced view on active travel schemes rather than focusing on people who shout the loudest.
There is now clear evidence to support the cycle lanes in Chiswick and we are urging TfL, Hounslow Council and Hammersmith & Fulham Council to fast track extensions of the route to Hammersmith, Brentford and Hounslow. We need a safe network of connected routes so that even more local journeys can be made by cycle and not in private cars.
We know the temporary cycle lanes are not perfect and Hounslow Cycling members have provided feedback and suggestions on the scheme to Hounslow Council and Transport for London. We are really pleased that our suggestions are being actively considered and we look forward to seeing these improvements soon.
More people cycling, cleaner air and safer streets will help boost the popularity of Chiswick High Road and it’s been wonderful to see that with the new Cycleway the area seems more vibrant with weekend flower, cheese and antiques markets and new shops opening.
TfL/Hounslow Press Release