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The London Cycling Campaign is providing a helping hand to new cyclists as
the congestion charge zone is extended.
When congestion charging was first introduced in February 2003, there was an
increase of more than 20% in cycling commuters keen to avoid the charge. The
London Cycling Campaign (LCC) hopes the extension of the zone in west London
will encourage still more people to enjoy the benefits of cycling.
LCC is providing free downloadable starter packs at www.lcc.org.uk
for those new to cycling in London. The pack includes: access to free cycle
route maps; access to good value cycle confidence training; where to find out
about free guided rides; and how to get hold of free advice booklets such as
Buying a Bike and Getting Started. There’s also advice on how to locate
an experienced ‘bicycle buddy.’ and information about LCC, the largest
urban cycling campaign in the world.
Tom Bogdanowicz, LCC campaigns and development manager, said: “Cycling
is a fantastic way of getting around London and getting fit.” “When
the congestion charge was first introduced, we found that new cyclists wanted
information from a reliable source. That’s why we are offering a free advice
and information pack on cycling in London.”
The western extension to the congestion charge zone will cover Notting Hill,
Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Pimlico. Motorists will be charged if
they enter the extension from February 19 2007.
It is expected that many motorists who currently drive from outside the zone
to offices in Kensington, Knightsbridge and Notting Hill will no longer use
their cars. Many make journeys of only a few miles and a bike provides the ideal
alternative.
Since the introduction of the congestion charge, commuting to work by bike has
been increasingly popular. Transport for London says that cycling on major roads
has increased by 72% since 2000. Many workplaces now provide secure cycle parking,
lockers and tax-free bikes purchase schemes
The London Cycling Campaign is the largest urban cycling campaign in the world with more than 10,000 members.
There are more than 650,000 regular cycle users in London
LCC's vision is to make London a world class cycling city. LCC works to improve
cycling in London and also provides services to its members, including:
LCC website - www.lcc.org.uk
Charlotte,
