AQW 25536/11-15


Mr Chris Lyttle
Alliance Party
East Belfast


Tabled Date: 11/09/2013
Answered On Date: 30/09/2013
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development what steps his Department is taking to address the rise in cyclists killed or seriously injured.


Answer:
My Department is committed to providing safer roads for vulnerable road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, by utilising a range of measures, such as road safety engineering, traffic calming and enhancement of the pedestrian and cycling network. Particular measures such as dedicated cycle lanes, toucan crossings and advance stop lines at traffic signal controlled junctions are widely used to help improve safety for cyclists.
My Department also works closely with the Department of the Environment and the Police Service of Northern Ireland in the promotion of Road Safety to all road users through its Travelwise initiative. This initiative aims to increase the number of commuters who choose to cycle to work, and as part of its promotion of cycling, encourages all road users to consider the needs and safety of others.
In addition, my Department has issued a leaflet entitled ‘Sharing Space on the Road’ to encourage safe behaviour among road users. The leaflet sets out tips for motorists and cyclists on sharing the roads with others. The leaflet was distributed to 120,000 motorists with motor tax renewal forms in March 2012 and has been made available at various government and local government locations, as well as cycling outlets. A copy of the leaflet can be found online at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/sharing_space_on_the_road.pdf or can be obtained from Travelwise NI (telephone 0845 378 0908).
These measures demonstrate my Department’s commitment to cycling through engineering, education and consultation with other external bodies.
As the Member will be aware, I have recently instructed officials in my Department to give increased and focussed priority to the needs of cyclists, to encourage greater participation in this healthy and sustainable form of transport. I have also asked for a new cycling unit to be established, to ensure the effective progress of a range of cycling initiatives.