Peter Jackson column

Apr 6 2006 By Peter Jackson, The Journal

A new highway code advises cyclists to use bike lanes where provided, but this has provoked the wrath of cycling organisations, which claim this will endanger their members.

They say the lanes are frequently too narrow, switch from one side of the road to another, or are full of rubbish, parked cars or potholes.

As a keen cyclist I do have some sympathy, although I hasten to add that County Durham, in which I live, is blessed with mile upon mile of excellent cycle paths.

However, in some of our towns and cities it is undoubtedly a different story and something that really matters to those who cycle to work, or wish to cycle to work.

This is something that should be encouraged for all our benefits. For the individual it means improved health, with cyclists living, on average, two years longer than non-cyclists, and enjoying a level of fitness equivalent to being between five and 10 years younger.

It is also worth pointing out that, in 2003, there were 40,000 deaths attributable to lack of physical activity, but only 113 due to cycling.

For society there are huge potential benefits for the environment if bikes are encouraged to relieve the pressure on our roads, especially if we could come close to emulating Amsterdam where there are 800,000 bikes.

But, compared to the Continent, we are not doing well. Cycling accounts for less than 2% of trips in the UK, compared to 10% in Sweden, 11% in Germany, 15% in Switzerland and 18% in Denmark.

Yet Sweden and Switzerland have harsher winters and more hills and there is greater car ownership in Germany.

Obviously then, there is a compelling case for national and local government to do more to make life easier for the cyclist, but employers could also do their bit at little cost to themselves.

The provision of secure parking for bikes, changing and shower facilities, lockers and guaranteed rides home in cases of emergency would all make a great difference to the employee who wants to cycle to work.

In return, the employer benefits from a healthier workforce, a cleaner environment and less congested roads. It could give a new meaning to "the economic cycle".