THE growing cycling culture needs real support from the Northern Ireland Executive if it is to grow and flourish according to SDLP Culture, Arts and Leisure spokesperson Karen McKevitt.
The South Down MLA said: “The World Police and Fire Games brought mountain-biking to Rostrevor Forest and Kilbroney Park where it was great to see local families enjoy viewing the sport which hopefully in turn inspired them to use the trails themselves. The investment in these mountain bike trails will be a lasting and positive legacy.
“It is an indication of the type of cycling investment we need to create a lasting cycling culture.
“Cycling is something that should be further promoted as it not only brings health benefits but it is an environmentally friendly way to travel. Our current cycling infrastructure is inadequate but despite this fact the activity has been growing in popularity over the last number of years with both commuters and those cycling for sport and pleasure.
“David Cameron wants to create ‘a cycling revolution’ and along with councils in England, his government has allocated £94million to promote cycling in a number of English cities. This investment shows a real commitment to improving the safety of cyclists and increasing the number of people who choose to hop on a bike for short journeys rather than use their car. The Northern Ireland Executive should follow this example.”
“We need the Executive to provide substantial investment for cycle networks to make the roads safer for cyclists; to provide bicycle docking stations; to improve cycle routes and lower speed limits,” said Mrs McKevitt.
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