bobshearing

Bob Shearing

Councillor - Christchurch City Riccarton Wigram

Would you actively pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop along the lines that have made it the transportation mode of choice for so many in Copenhagen?

While Christchurch is probably never going to be as cycle friendly as it appears Copenhagen is, I believe we can do much better than where we are at present and I will continue to advocate for both on and off road cycleways where-ever appropriate.

Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider? Not at present.

Maybe prepared to change my position once we have a safe network of off road cycleways.

Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars? Yes - where appropriate.

Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements footpaths?

( at least as an interim measure for the years it will otherwise take to establish real separation from motorized vehicles)

to enable 'slow' cyclists ( e.g.the elderly )to take up utility cycling. Yes - where appropriate.

Would you actively work to set up a campaign to educate the pubic about and promote the types of bicycles and technologies appropriate to utility cycling?

At this stage I do not know what he term “utility cycling” means but certainly I will take every opportunity to install cycleways where-ever appropriate.

Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?

Yes - where appropriate.

Do you cycle yourself? - And if not at this stage in your life, what would it take to get you to take up 'utility' cycling in the future ?

I cycle for exercise as often as time allows.

Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?

Yes - but we must make it as safe as possible first.

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