Cyclists rank risky roads

Three local routes among state’s worst

CYCLISTS have ranked three major roads in the Geelong region among the most unsafe in the state.

Thirteenth Beach Rd, Queenscliff Rd and Barwon Heads Rd were each named in the top 10 unsafe spots for cyclists in regional Victoria, according to new data.

The results from the BikeSpot 2020 research project came after almost 6000 people mapped more than 7000 locations where they felt safe or unsafe when riding bikes.

Topping the safety concerns for cyclists was a lack of dedicated space to ride, car dooring and traffic speed.

Insufficient infrastructure was linked to three in four spots deemed unsafe by cyclists.

Thirteenth Beach Rd was listed as the third most unsafe spot in regional Victoria due to poor driver behaviour and its road surface.

Riders also took issue with Queenscliff Rd, Swan Bay, which came in at fourth because of the absence of any bike lane.

A dangerous intersection was listed as the reason for Barwon Heads Rd being named the seventh most unsafe spot for cyclists.

The research project involved interactive data-mapping platform CrowdSpot and leading Australian cycling safety charity Amy Foundation.

CrowdSpot director Anthony Aisenberg said it was hoped the results would help shape future planning decisions at government level.

“It’s clear from the results that the vast majority of people — cyclists and drivers alike — want a physically separated and connected cycling network,” he said.

“It is the best method to in

Gillett crease safety and importantly everyone’s willingness to ride more often.

“It is even better if these infrastructure improvements are used in combination with slower moving vehicle traffic and outside car dooring zones as these issues are the cause for most stress.”

The project results coincide with a new survey showing 60 per cent of Victorians are unlikely to return to public transport after the COVID-19 lockdown.

The Bicycles Online survey also revealed 64 per cent of Victorian respondents were cycling more since the lockdown measures were imposed.

Cycling industry expert Phil Latz said there was a clear need for better cycling infrastructure to meet the growing demand.

“Cycling needs to be encouraged as a solution to public transport issues, not just in this post COVID-era, but as a long-term alternative,” he said.