Transport for London (TfL) has announced that three cycle and bus lane schemes introduced during the pandemic will now be implemented permanently in the UK capital.
Throughout the pandemic, TfL worked with councils to make it easier for people to walk and cycle in London. The capital’s experimental schemes included the introduction of new sections of cycle lanes and bus lanes in the city centre to separate cyclists from motor traffic.
Three of these schemes will now be made permanent:
- A new protected cycle lane on Tooley Street in Southwark, which makes it easier for people to travel between existing cycle routes, such as on London Bridge and towards Greenwich along Cycleway 4
- New sections of protected cycle lanes and bus lanes on Cycleway 8 between Chelsea Bridge and Wandsworth Town Centre, which facilitates travel between southwest and central London
- 24-hour bus lanes on Cycleway 7 between Elephant & Castle and Oval
Data from the schemes has shown that the changes have increased the number of people cycling by more than 25 percent without delaying traffic.
Bus journey times westbound have also become quicker and more reliable.
Will Norman, London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said:We've seen a huge rise in walking and cycling over the past two years as more and more Londoners enjoy using sustainable ways to get around the capital. To maintain this success, we are continuing to make our roads safer as we build a better London for everyone. I'm delighted that these cycle schemes have been made permanent, enabling even more Londoners to choose greener, cleaner and healthier modes of transport.
These schemes are in addition to TfL’s decision to make 85km of 24-hour bus lanes permanent at the start of 2021.
To further encourage people to reduce their reliance on private cars, TfL is also introducing 500 e-bikes to its Santander Cycles scheme from 12 September. Alongside the growth of protected cycle lanes, the addition of e-bikes aims to help further reduce the barriers that prevent people from cycling in London.
