TfL opens two new Cycle Superhighways

The latest two Cycle Superhighways have been opened this week in London.

Transport for London (TfL) used the launch to reveal cycling had increased dramatically on the two pilot Superhighway routes opened last summer.

Two new routes connect Bow to Aldgate (CS2) and Wandsworth to Westminster (CS8). Cycle infrastructure along the routes has been improved at junctions to enhance safety – such as at the junction of Cambrige Heath Road and Whitechapel Road.

The first Cycle Superhighways, connecting Merton to the City (CS7) and Barking to Tower Gateway (CS3), have both seen increases in cycle traffic. The Merton route has seen cycle usage rise 46 per cent, while the Barking/Tower Gateway route seen cycle journeys rise 83 per cent. On some sections cycling has increased by more than 100 per cent, with over three quarters using them for travelling to and from work.

80 per cent of users felt the Barclays Cycle Superhighways improved safety for cyclists, with two thirds claiming the blue surfacing helped them to feel safer on the road, and that the public gives cyclists more because of the blue surfacing of the highways, particularly at junctions and roundabouts.

"These vivid blue routes make the world of difference for cyclists on the streets of London, and prove a powerful and visible statement on our roads that assert to every Londoner, whether on two wheels or four, that the capital is a cycling city,” said Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London’s director for environment.

“Our pilot routes have proved a great success with lots more Londoners leaping into the saddle, and telling us they feel safer on the road. I’m confident our new cycle superhighways will prove just as popular."