The London Cycling Campaign (LCC) has launched a new video ahead of the mayoral election on May 2, urging Londoners to show their support for cycling. The charity, with 12,000 members, is particularly targeting Susan Hall, the Conservative candidate, who has made controversial statements about removing cycleways. In the video, cyclists of all backgrounds share their love for cycling, emphasizing its inclusivity and popularity in the city.
The LCC video highlights the diverse range of cyclists in London and the positive impact of cycling on the city. With over one million cycle journeys made in London every day, cycling has become a mainstream mode of transportation, with weekday bicycle journeys surpassing Tube journeys. The introduction of protected cycleways has further increased cycling in London, with the first Cycle Superhighway opened in 2015 by former mayor Boris Johnson. However, subsequent Tory Prime Ministers have shown less support for cycling, with current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak favoring motorists over cyclists.
The video also addresses the issue of low-emissions zones and the impact of cycling on reducing private car journeys in London. The Congestion Charge, introduced in 2003, has contributed to a decrease in private car journeys, making cycling a more attractive option for many Londoners. The LCC urges Londoners to make their voices heard in the mayoral election and show their support for cycling as a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.
The Conservative party has been using cycling as a divisive issue, with some officials criticizing cycleways as part of a supposed “war on the motorist.” Susan Hall, the Conservative mayoral candidate, has made controversial statements about removing cycleways and low-emissions zones. The LCC’s video aims to counter these views and promote cycling as a positive and beneficial mode of transportation in London.
Londoners are encouraged to visit the LondonLovesCycling.org website to show their support for cycling and make sure the next Mayor is aware of the importance of cycling in the city. With cycling becoming increasingly popular and mainstream in London, it is important for the Mayor to prioritize cycling infrastructure and support to promote sustainable transportation options. The video serves as a reminder of the many benefits of cycling and the need to continue investing in cycling infrastructure and promoting cycling as a safe and inclusive mode of transportation in London.
