• DESPITE the CNJ’s August 17 cycling special supplement, recent published statistics on cycling and walking in Camden, prepared using data collected by Sport England, actually show a drop in those local residents cycling three times a week for the latest year recorded, 2022.

The pre-Covid numbers were higher than they are now despite the number of cycle lane schemes which have been implemented.

The huge disturbance to pedestrians, smooth road transport, those driving in the area, and shopkeepers trying to service their businesses – imposed against popular opinion – appears to have actually delivered a negative effect on cycling.

What could the reasons be for this? First the new cycle lanes are a terrible mess. They stop and start, are never policed, weave in and out of bus stops, between parked cars and pose a serious risk to all, not least cyclists.

The surfaces of the lanes are uneven and they are not suitable for the huge range of speeds available when e-bikes, e-scooters, gentle upright bicycles, and speedy racers are all lumped into one tight strip. The plastic bollards are a menace, are frequently knocked over, and litter the roadways.

Prince of Wales Road cycle lane has actually been used far more for roadwork practice than cycles ever since it was designated.

Do Camden not realise that their cynical employment of cycle lanes to inhibit private car use, is causing such a mess?

As someone who cycles every day, and all day, I am appalled by these facts.

As a Conservative councillor, I formally opposed the imposition of the Haverstock Hill cycle lane and suggested a more sustainable route-based encouragement of cycling. This would have ensured improved safety without unnecessary disruption.

I am hugely in favour of good cycle support, not the unsuccessful, blinkered, dogmatic, approach which Camden has chosen.

STEVE ADAMS
Belsize Cyclist