Tuesday 29 September 2009

Setting the wheels in motion

British Women feel it is no longer safe to cycle on our roads and are currently launching a safety plea to governments.

Sustrans, a sustainable transport charity, revealed in a poll that women have major concerns for their own safety on the roads.

Since September, the public have been supporting ‘Motion for Women’, Sustrans’ urgent plea to governments to make cycling in Britain safer for women. The petition is already being backed by organisations including Mind, the National Federation of Women’s Institutes and the Townswomen’s Guilds.

One of their major requests is the creation of more cycle lanes that are separated from all other vehicles. Melissa Henry, Sustrans’ Communications Director, said:

“Women’s response so far to the woefully inadequate provisions for cyclists in
Britain has been simple; they don’t cycle.

But, they are also telling us that they desperately want that situation to change.

The desire to cycle, and to enjoy all the benefits that cycling brings, is becoming a
priority for women.

We need to make it a priority for governments too and push for real changes in the way our villages, towns and cities are planned.”

The poll revealed 79 per cent of women do not cycle at all while 67 per cent believe the plea will encourage more women to travel by bike.

Women have until the end of November to register their support to ensure their voices are heard. All signatures will be presented to Government in December.

Women are asked to add their support at www.bikebelles.org.uk/index.php/sign_our_petition/

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