The local Facebook groups are all boiling over ranting about the latest LTN (low traffic neighbourhood). Waltham Forest is a pioneer in implementing LTNs having got a load of EU money way back to create what was then called mini-Holland. It transformed the travelling lives of us cyclists and pedestrians for the better and similar exercises continue to do so. I can't say I don't love them - this particular road and nearby ones were terrible for fast drivers whizzing along making them more unsafe than the main roads with their dedicated cycle lanes.
Of course the surrounding main roads are now gridlocked. Once the significant numbers of people using their cars unnecessarily see sense and walk / cycle / get the bus - the roads will be free for those who have no choice but to drive.
Working from home day and lovely and bright - cycled to the post office to send off mum's Finnish bank form. Discovered with a shock this morning that I was on call - somehow missed that. Luckily M is able to cover for the one night I'm out.
It's always a delicate subject, isn't it?! And there are always pros and cons, but it sounds as if it works for you. Living in the country, as we do, with very little public transport, we don't have the 'issue'.
I agree it’s controversial- and good for you. I gave up my car three years ago and take public transport - Thomas still drives as he needs to get to see people off hours. I have to say wherever I go the whole of London is gridlocked - even the main roads like the A41 road to town is 20mph zone with an empty cycle lane, and cars moving at 5mph. It’s become very frustrating to go anywhere
It is a real toughie. I have disabled relatives and these areas are very difficult as cycling and walking are impossible for them. All the side roads around us have become 20mph zones but no one drives at that because they have been driving at 30mph there for more than 50 years! The proper Dutch thing would be to open up a separated lane for bikes only alongside the roads not instead of them.
Lovely shot. You can never please everyone when it involves traffic. Here everyone wants to use his//her own car. Riding a bike is almost impossible because everywhere is uphill or downhill and the roads are clogged with traffic. As far as I can I walk wherever I want to go.
I love this image - fav! I'm all in favour of restricting motor traffic and encouraging cycling, walking and public transport. York has a pedestrian zone in the city centre, but other than that there are a few half hearted attempts at cycle provision and restricting traffic in a few residential areas. I can't understand why so many are convinced that the only way to get around is by car. If only they would try the alternatives. If they caught the bus they might well meet some interesting people. Sorry, rant over!
Ian