Candidate for Burwood Pegasus Community Board
Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen? Yes, I am very much in favour of cycling in any form, but particularly utility cycling, which can be enjoyed by almost everyone. It is also a sustainable, carbon-neutral mode of transport. However, having said that, I think it will be an uphill battle here in Christchurch. It has taken years for other cities to develop utility cycling to the degree that you find it now; Christchurch cannot expect to fully implement it within a generation.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider? Personally, I always wear a helmet and think nothing of it. The law, as it stands, is ineffective as so many people don't carry a helmet, let alone wear it, yet very few get prosecuted for not doing so. Therefore, I believe, something needs to be changed. Probably the best solution is, as you suggest, discretionary wearing of helmets. This, however, has to be implemented at national level.
Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars? I can see the benefits of it, however there will always be a need for a certain amount of curbside parking. I think there needs to be a lot of thought put into how we can accommodate a balance for both cyclists and motorists.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements
( at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)
to enable 'slow' cyclists ( e.g.the elderly )to take up utility cycling. I'm not keen on using pavements for cycling, as they are. Utility cyclists would be fine, but how do we restrict it to these cyclists and not those who ride fast and endanger pedestrians. Walking is every bit as sustainable and carbon-neutral as cycling so it also has to be encouraged. Cycling on the pavement would discourage pedestrians, unless the pavement could be divided down the centre, as in Riccarton Ave, for example. There is also a level of danger in cycling on the pavement as every driveway becomes an intersection.
Would you actively work to set up a campaign to educate the pubic about and promote the types of bicycles and technologies appropriate to utility cycling? Yes, but as an interested resident rather than a Community Board Member. Most of the cycles available in New Zealand, at present, are not suitable for this type of cycling. There definitely needs to be a lean towards safer and more serviceable cycles where the rider has a more upright position. I love the concept of free cycles around the city, however thought needs to be given to combat any potential vandalism. As with so many things, the minority could spoil it for the majority.
Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles ? Yes, most definitely. It should have happened years ago. I read that this is to happen on some bus routes in the near future. It works well in other cities round the world, so should work equally well here.
Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ? Yes, I cycle frequently. I use my cycle as my mode of transport, rather than using it just recreationally.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle? Yes, cycling is a great way to travel. It is a cheap, sustainable, carbon-neutral means of transport. It is a great way to get fit; tone the muscles; lose weight and for many, an excellent anti-depressant. You see so much more as you cycle, so become more aware of your surroundings. However, I would stress, that cyclists must obey the Road Code for them to feel safe and to be respected by motorists. For every motorist that cycles, there is one less car on the roads, making the safety issue less of an issue.
Why? / Why not?
Thanks for your time and interest.
Alan Preston , Christchurch.
Thanks for the opportunity to give my views,
Deryn Tregurtha Candidate for Burwood Pegasus Community Board
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