News release from Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) and Bike NZ

EMBARGOED UNTIL 5PM TODAY – November 14, 2013

High level cycling inquiry needed

An inquiry into cycling, recommended by Coroner Gordon Matenga today, should go much wider than a safety panel led by the NZ Transport Agency, say cycling advocates.

Getting more people on bikes will deliver huge benefits to all New Zealanders, so we need a high-level Public Inquiry to make the most of the opportunity, say the Cycling Advocates' Network (CAN).

A focus solely on cycling safety is unlikely to produce the best result, says CAN spokesperson Patrick Morgan.

“Cycling is not a problem to be solved, but a significant opportunity to deliver a range of benefits: tourism, health, transport, clean air, liveable cities, safer streets, and recreational activities for all ages.”

An inquiry into cycling should examine all these benefits and how we can work together to achieve them.

The Get Britain Cycling report from the UK's All Party Parliamentary Cycling Group offers a useful model, says Mr Morgan.

“Making cycling safer, convenient and attractive should be a top priority for New Zealand, if we want a healthy and prosperous future.”

“With one and a half million New Zealanders already on their bikes, there's huge demand for protected cycle lanes, safer speeds and effective education of all road users.”

“London and many other cities have achieved massive growth in cycling thanks to leadership and investment. We can do the same here.”

ENDS

Reference: Get Britain Cycling http://allpartycycling.org/inquiry/

--

© Scoop Media