Walk/Cycle
In ConnectedCities to walk or cycle is the norm because they are the easiest options. Covered walkways run to the pedshed centre, and have been retrofitted into older towns. Even the pavements generally have some form of protection from the elements - canopies, walls, fences, trees and hedges – and main roads are easy to cross. Although everyday amenities are only a short distance away, people often walk and cycle much further and, national cycle networks are widely used.
Vision from 2050
A cycle network of minor roads, paths and walkways makes the towns and villages, and the green spaces and countryside between them, fully permeable and pleasant to move about in. If a road is too busy to cycle on it has separate paths or service roads with a hedgerow or barrier screening them from the general traffic.
Cycle routes mainly cross main roads on the level at light-controlled crossings and junctions, but at particularly busy junctions the main stream of traffic is carried above or below, leaving only the lesser flows to be controlled by the lights.
All roads and surfaced paths are available to cyclists and small traffic as well as pedestrians, but the main cycle routes are well engineered, well lit, well signed and well used.
Bicycle hire racks are widespread.
Protected Walkways serve all housing, shopping and commercial areas.