virginiairvine
Thank you for your email which I found to be very informative.
In answer to your questions:
1.
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?
ANSWER:
Yes, I would pursue policies that would enable utility cycling to develop although I am not familiar with the Copenhagen model. I was very impressed with the system of separating bikes from cars in Vienna and a similar system seems to work well in Christchurch in Rolleston Avenue but could be further improved.
I have also been watching with interest the 'Velib' system introduced in Paris on 15 July this year, having been successfully introduced in Lyon. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6899082.stm
2.
Would you lobby to rescind the law that compels cyclists to wear helmets in order to make it discretionary on the rider?
ANSWER:
I would want more information about the frequency and severity of head injuries pre and post the introduction of helmets before I could make a decision on this.
3.
Would you give preference to establishing a comprehensive network of cycle lanes over retaining curbside parking for cars?
ANSWER:
I would prefer to see cycles separated from cars and would lobby for widening footpaths to enable them to incorporate cycle lanes.
4.
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.
ANSWER:
Yes.
5.
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?
ANSWER:
Yes, I would be happy to support such a campaign.
6.
Would you lobby for the installation of bike racks on ALL public transport vehicles ?
ANSWER:
This is a new concept to me and I would like more information about it. If a system similar to the Velib system were introduced in Christchurch it may replace the need for bike racks on all public transport vehicles.
7.
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 ?
ANSWER:
I don't cycle myself as I live and work in Christchurch Central and I prefer to walk. I haven't cycled since I was about 11 years old when my family left New Zealand to live in Sydney.
8.
Would you recommend that other people (children/ the elderly) cycle?
Why? / Why not?
ANSWER:
I would love to see Christchurch made a cycle friendly city so that I could genuinely recommend that people cycle, including children and the elderly.
Thank you for your interest in the local body elections Alan.
Kind regards
Virginia
Virginia Irvine
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