Regional Council (ECan) Candidate –Christchurch North
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
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider?
In the current on-street cycling circumstances: No - the costs of injury are too great
If we had a comprehensive cycling pathway system independent of roadways no helmets could be an option
Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars?
Yes if part of a logical interurban cycling pathway. Care has to be given to ensure some on-street parking remains for residents. Clearways should also be considered
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.
Active lobbying no, passive allowance, yes. Preferred option: separate cycle-ways
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
Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
Yes, yes and absolutely, Yes. As a sometimes bike rider, sometimes bus rider the option of putting my bike on the bus when it is pouring down rain would be great. In an other city in which I lived sometimes it was just too much for me to bike the 12km home uphill and into the wind after a long day at work and the ‘bike on the bus’ option was wonderful. I would also like to see some incentive for businesses to provide shower facilities for those who bike to work.
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 do – it is faster for me to get to the shops and into the CBD on my bike than by car – and much better for me and a more pleasurable trip along the Avon. I have a bike not unlike the utility bikes – mudguards, upright, carrier (and I would like to add a basket and a chain cover)
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Why? / Why not?
Yes – health, climate change, peak oil, reduced footprint
Thanks for asking the questions
Jane
Jane Demeter
Regional Council (ECan) Candidate –Christchurch North
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