Campaign for Better Transport Car Dependency Scorecard

The Campaign for Better Transport has created a “Car Dependency Scorecard” that assesses various cities on various criteria including how cycling and walking can be used as alternatives for car use. Overall Derby is rated 11th (somewhere in the middle of the various cities). For cycling and walking Derby does better at equal 7th. The full report can be found at http://www.bettertransport.org.uk/files/car-dependency-scorecard_2.pdf

The Campaign makes the following recommendations with regard to cycling and walking, which I am sure all DCG members would agree with:

Local authorities need to be able to put more funding into facilities for cyclists and pedestrians. The Local Sustainable Transport Fund is very useful, but only a minority of areas are benefiting so far.
Measures that should be invested in include:
• Better cycling infrastructure and more dedicated, safe cycle routes to attract commuters out of their cars
• Comprehensive travel planning and promotion of walking and cycling, including dedicated travel advisors for schools and workplaces
• Cycle training for everyone who wants it, as well as promotional programmes, local route maps and advice
Road safety is seen as a barrier for many considering walking or cycling for their journeys, and more needs to be done to reduce danger.
Streets should be better designed and lower speed limits applied and enforced to fit the needs of residential and shopping areas.
Another problem that needs more attention is the integration of cycling with public transport, with improved cycling parking at transport hubs and bikes able to be carried – whenever possible – on trains and buses.