Firms demand better cycling infrastructure

DUBLIN businesses are coming together to demand safer cycling infrastructure in the city for their staff.

More than 40 of Dublin Chamber’s member companies have teamed up so far to call for increased Government spending on segregated cycle lanes and better bike facilities in the capital.

The move is part of a new partnership between the Chamber and the Cyclingworks Dublin campaign, which aims to encourage the business community to pressure the Government to significantly increase the amount of money it is spending on safe infrastructure for those using bikes.

A key goal of the campaign is for the Government to provide the National Transport Authority with the funding required to implement the GDA Cycle Network Plan, which was launched in 2013.

Dublin Chamber said progress on its implementation has been far too slow over the past five years.

Head of public affairs Graeme Mcqueen said: “Companies are seeing a sharp increase in the amount of staff commuting to work by bike.

“They are becoming increasingly aware of the need for better, safer cycling facilities in the city.

“Improved cycling infrastructure is key to growing cyclist numbers in Dublin. It’s hugely encouraging to see a sharp rise in the number of people cycling in Dublin over recent years.

“Since 2008, the number of people commuting into the city has doubled to more than 12,000 every day. However, for the most part, this progress does not come as a result of good cycling infrastructure, but rather in spite of it. This needs to change.

“Workers in Dublin are increasingly looking at cycling as a way of getting around the city. Feedback tells us that thousands more would like to cycle, but are too afraid to get on their bikes.”

The Chamber said its vision is for much safer segregated cycle lanes throughout Dublin, meaning cyclists no longer need to share space with buses and private vehicles.