Roads, transport, and parking make for top three agenda item for Londoners, according to new research

Roads, transport, and parking should be a top agenda item for local authorities in 2022, according to two in five residents living in London (39 per cent).

The new research from science-based technology company, 3M reveals that within the region, this is one of three areas most in need of attention, closely following housing (52 per cent) and planning, building, and the environment (41 per cent).

After more time spent working, travelling and exercising close to home in the past two years, 80 per cent of people in Britain believe the pandemic has highlighted the need for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians to be able to co-exist. However, there are specific factors preventing these groups from doing so in harmony.

It is estimated that one in five Brits now cycle in a typical week. However, in London almost a third of those who already cycle (32 per cent) say that, despite having access to cycle lanes where they live, they still wouldn’t feel safe enough to travel on a bike during peak times.

71 per cent of this group do not believe the right infrastructure is in place to allow them to ride safely and 40 per cent say that their local authorities could do more to make the area more accessible to cyclists.

The research has brought prevalent safety concerns and the contrasting opinions of road users to the fore, particularly when it comes to motorists and cyclists. Seven in 10 (70 per cent) cyclists worry that drivers don’t know the correct etiquette when using roads with cycle lanes in their area.

Meanwhile, only 53 per cent of drivers confidently say that they know the latest Highway Code rules in relation to cyclists, which at the time of the study had not been updated since 2015.

Andy Fish, technical specialist for 3M Transportation Safety Division, said: “It’s fantastic that investment in new cycle lanes, walkways and other infrastructure is being put to good use.

“This research shows that irrespective of mode of transport, the majority of people want to be able to share spaces with others safely, and they are looking to their local authorities for support.

“At 3M we are actively encouraging local councils and highway authorities in London to participate in a pilot scheme that would allow their communities to benefit from traffic safety solutions designed to address some of the concerns expressed by drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.”