Sydney cyclists hit with road closure

Cyclists who live in the north west of Sydney have learned that its state government plans to close off a key commuting lane into the city. The cyclelane in the M2 motorway, which represents a direct and relatively-safe corridor for commuting and recreational cyclists, is to be closed and converted into another car lane, supposedly to alleviate daily traffic congestion.

The wide shoulder has served as a commuting and training cyclelane for the last 10 years. Transportation experts say its closure will have little effect on reducing congestion. The alternate route suggested by the government involves congested, hilly roads, with multiple road crossings. Bicycle NSW CEO, Alex Unwin said , "The key risk is that the alternate route will have a counter effect on the continued growth in the use of bicycles as a means of transport in this key corridor, denying the community the triple benefits of improved health, pollution reduction and congestion easing associated with cycling."

Advocacy officer Kate Marley added, "This is one example of many poor decisions made, without the required consideration of the health, environmental and sustainable transport impacts, by governments around the world in relation to cycling infrastructure."

For further details and to comment, please click here.