The following is a joint statement released this morning (29 September) by the CEOs of Bikeability Trust, British Cycling, Cycling UK, Living Streets, Ramblers and Sustrans. [Ed: This is in response to the government’s ‘Plan for Drivers’ issued October 2023].
“When the government should be giving people more opportunities to live their lives responsibly, it’s robbing them of options.
“When ministers could be promoting public transport, cycling and walking as cheap sustainable options in a cost of living and climate crisis, they’re entrenching congestion and reliance on driving for short, local journeys.
“When the government could respect people’s freedom to choose how they travel, it’s removing the alternatives. This is a plan that looks no further than one way of travelling and will make the roads worse for those occasions when people do need to drive.
“Having a reliable bus route to work, the freedom to cycle to the park, or to be able to let your children walk to school safely while breathing clean air should not be beyond us.
“This plan restricts people’s travel choices, setting the country on cruise control towards missed net zero targets and a worsening health and inactivity crisis, while denying our children of their independence and freedom to move around their local area safely.”
Emily Cherry, chief executive, Bikeability Trust
Jon Dutton, CEO, British Cycling
Sarah Mitchell, chief executive, Cycling UK
Stephen Edwards, chief executive, Living Streets
Ross Maloney, chief executive, Ramblers
Xavier Brice, chief executive, Sustrans
Ed: West England Bylines does not support any particular organisation or company. We do however give space to those who promote progressive and sustainable goals.
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