Figures show the real demand for more cycle routes

1.48.09pm GMT Wed 29th Nov 2006

Antrim Alliance Councillor, Alan Lawther

Alliance Environment Spokesperson, Cllr Alan Lawther, has welcomed news that the number of people using cycle lanes in Belfast has increased by 50% over the past five years. He stated that the figures showed the demand for more government investment in cycle lanes to get more cars off the road, in order to protect the environment. The figures were released by the Department for Regional Development's monitoring group for the Northern Ireland Cycle Forum, and they also showed that cycle route use across Northern Ireland is up 25% in the past five years.

The Antrim Councillor stated: "I am glad to hear that the number of people who use bikes to travel around Belfast has increased. Using bikes and public transport helps us win the race to save the environment.

"I am pleased to see that more people are getting out of their cars and biking it around town. Its great to see that local people seem to be heeding the warnings about the need to cut down on car use.

"The health benefits of cycling instead of driving to work must also be recognized. People have two good reasons to leave the car at home and get on their bikes.

"High quality cycle routes lead to increased bike use, and these figures have backed this up.

"These figures illustrate the growth in popularity of cycling and show the need for government to consider extending the network of cycle routes in Northern Ireland."

ENDS