Cycle lanes in Alfred Gelder Street.

‘If you haven’t tried cycling to work before, now is the time’

People in Hull are being encouraged to cycle to work as part of a national campaign to encourage active travel.

Cycle to Work Day 2021 focuses on encouraging people to get on a bike and try cycling to and from work as an alternative way to travel.

And with an increasing number of cyclists across the city, residents are really stepping up to the challenge.

Councillor Dean Kirk, portfolio holder for highways and transport said: “If you haven’t tried cycling to work before, now is the time.

“If you need to travel into work and haven’t tried cycling before, then now is the perfect time for you to explore the benefits and possibilities of cycling in Hull.

“We’re a flat city which is ideal for cycling, and our growing network of cycle lanes gives you the opportunity to ride with confidence on protected lanes and routes throughout Hull— whether it’s a quiet back street or green, open space.”

Councillor Kirk shared part of his daily journey using the new cycle lanes in Alfred Gelder Street:

Transport habits during the pandemic changed, and the country saw a huge shift towards residents using cycling and walking to get around the city. Over the last year, cycling across the country has risen by 46 per cent, with the roads in 2020 seeing the highest levels of cycling since the 1960s.

Councillor Kirk said: “It’s fantastic to see the increase in cycling, and we’re pleased that people are feeling safe enough to use these new cycle lanes as a means of getting from A to B.”

There are a number of ways people can increase their confidence before using the cycle lanes, including taking part in the rusty riders course and making use of the outdoor cycle track at Ennerdale Leisure Centre.

Councillor Kirk continued: “Our overall aim is for Hull to become carbon neutral by 2030, and to support these ambitious aims we must look at ways in which we can travel greener, minimise pollution and tackle congestion.”

To find out more, visit Cycle to Work Day.

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