The Future?



The year is 2046, and Leeds is a safe place for cyclists. It has shrugged off its reputation as one of of the most dangerous cycling cities in the world and pushes forward to become the safest. The department of transportation has long since completed the construction of the 'Cycle superhighway' linking the cities of Leeds and Bradford. £29 million was spent on bringing this ambitious vision to life. Metro has payed around £7.5million while Bradford Council pay 25% of the remainder and Leeds City Council 75%.

Cyclists can now ride easy on the resurfaced Leeds to Liverpool canal towpath between Shipley and Armley, as well as additional secure bike parking areas, and 20mph zones for vehicles.

Councillor Van Slater (Bradford Council executive member for Transport) had this to say, "It is an exciting initiative that helps encourage more people to make safer cycling journeys for both work and leisure. It also gives children more confidence to cycle and improve their physical activity and health."

These points are definitely a priority for the Leeds Cycling Campaign, and also the board members who worked closely with the council as advisors during the design process of the Superhighway.

Elsewhere Leeds is on the up, the creation of many new routes, either segregated or giving cyclists clear priority are properly maintained and regularly used.

The number of children cycling to school has risen drastically from 2% to 43% thanks to the drive of the campaigners educating our youth about the benefits of healthy transport.