Rota, a local environmental NGO, has put forward a set of proposals ahead of the upcoming general election which aim to be inline with a vision for sustainable mobility.
Rota said that the bicycle should not just be an afterthought in the planning and infrastructure of the island. ‘On such a small island, where the average commute is only a few kilometres, we want to see the bicycle seriously considered as one of the main modes of transport.’
Focused on cycling advocacy, a set of 17 proposals serve as solutions to guide the government’s efforts to give everyone the opportunity to use the bicycle as a viable means of transportation.
The proposals include increasing commuting by bicycle, legally protecting bicycle users and pedestrians, insurance cover for bike users and incentivising sustainable transport.
An emphasis on lighting and CCTV cameras to increase safety was also included, as were narrower car lanes, separated sustainable infrastructure in main roads, better and more regular bike racks and the adoption of suitable design standards.
The NGO highlighted contraflow exemptions for cyclists, the respect towards sustainable transport infrastructure, safer residential roads, use of country roads and the encouragement of multi-modality in terms of transport.
Last but not least, the NGO called for more pedestrianisation, a safe cycle network and the consultation of civil society and citizens. Rota said that an avenue must be made available in which legal action can be taken against authorities that fail to adhere to the legalisation.
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Photo Source: Rota FB