mattmorris
http://www.myspace.com/matt_morris
Answers on ’utility cycling’
Recently I was asked to give my views on 'utility cycling'. Here are my views. Let me know your thoughts.
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?
Yes I would. The current council's reticence about pursuing cycle lanes has been terrible. I have already said in my own campaign material that I would support the sorts of measures you promote, and 2021's transport policy underlines these issues very clearly.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider?
Not at this stage. I believe that motorist culture is too far entrenched in this city for such a measure to be safe. I am appalled at the way motorists treat both cyclists and pedestrians. Once cycling is made safe I would be open to to revisiting this issue.
Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars?
I would.
Would you lobby to rescind the law which prohibits cyclists from using pavements
( 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.
As I understand it, where it is clearly indicated that cycles share a footpath, there isn't a problem. I have heard of mixed footpaths and cycleways in other centres that are perfectly safe, and I am sure all cyclists know that biking on the footpath in some parts of the city is the only safe option. Yes, I would be happy to lobby for this change.
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?
I would be happy to assist with such a campaign.
Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
I am not sure of the implications of this. When I lived in Lyttelton I always felt provision should be made for cyclists on the buses. In principle I am in favour of this measure, but I would need more information to give a definite answer.
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 don't have a driver's license, but I have always been a walker. Now I tend to always use a mixture of buses and walking to get around. I don't bike in Christchurch because I find it too stressful negotiating my way around parked cars, parking cars, and cars generally. In my view there is a major cultural change required before utility cycling would become my preferred mode of transport.
Therefore, I am very supportive of those attempting to bring about this change.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Why? / Why not?
When we get a decent cycle network operational in the city I would recommend using it to everyone. Being flat, this is the perfect city for cycling, as of course it used to be. More cyclists means less pollution, less obesity, and less dependence on hydrocarbons, all matters that must be addressed one way or another.
Dr. Matt Morris
Council and Community Board Candidate
Shirley Papanui
Christchurch 2021