Ealing’s Cycle Lane Proposals: Your Feedback Needed

Ealing Council is consulting on 2 cycle lane proposals for more segregated cycle routes in Hanwell and Acton Park Royal. In Hanwell, the consultation is changes on the Boston Road, the key link between Uxbridge Road and the A4. Give your feedback before 18 October, when the consultations close. For full details and to add your comments to the Boston Road cycle infrastructure consultation. In Acton, the consultation proposes for cycling and pedestrian improvements, including a 2-way cycle-track, shared with pedestrians. For full details and to add your comments to New Cycle Lanes Planned in Park Royal and North Acton

Cycling is a great way to travel, it’s low-cost, great for your health and often the quickest way to travel. In Ealing only 10% of residents are regular cyclists. When asked residents wants to feel safer when cycling. This was illustrated by more than 1,000 residents responded to Ealing Council’s Cycle Network Plan consultation last year saying there aren’t enough safe cycling lanes to encourage them to get on their bikes.

Benefits of Cycling

1. Environmental impact: Contribute to a reduction in air pollution. If just one person trades their daily car commute for cycling, it can reduce their carbon footprint by up to 1,500 pounds of CO2 per year.
2. Cost Savings: Saves you money. When you factor in the costs of fuel, parking, vehicle maintenance, and insurance, the expenses of driving can add up quickly. Bicycles, on the other hand, have minimal maintenance costs and no fuel expenses.
3. Health and fitness improves: Regular cycling enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts overall fitness levels. World Health Organisation walking and cycling studies have shown walking for 30 minutes or cycling for 20 minutes on most days reduces mortality risk by at least 10%.
4. Mental Well-being: The benefits of cycling extend beyond physical health; it also significantly impacts mental well-being. Cycling has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The exposure to natural light and fresh air also contributes to improved mood and mental clarity. 
5. Traffic and Commute Efficiency: In many urban areas, traffic congestion is a daily challenge for commuters. Cycling can often be faster and more predictable than driving in heavy traffic. Bicycles can navigate through gridlocks and take advantage of bike lanes and paths that are not accessible to cars. This can lead to a more efficient and enjoyable commute, with less time spent in frustration and more time for productive or leisure activities. 

Ealing cycle improvements plans

Ealing council is committed to building protected cycle facilities on main roads where there is space and funding available. They are looking for your feedback to their cycle lane proposals so they can find the optimal design for those who use them and live in the area.

The latest plans, which are part of the council’s wider investment strategy to create a greener, healthier and safer borough, include:

1. Extending a high-quality protected cycle track on Boston Road in Hanwell
2. New New Cycle Lanes Planned in Park Royal and North Acton

Submit your responses before the 18 October to voice your opinions to these plans.

Feedback on cycle lane proposals

Local groups also have an opportunity to submit responses to the cycle lane proposals in Hanwell and Acton.

“It’s good to see highway improvements that will make it safer for older children to travel independently” says Ealing Cycling Campaign

Better Ealing Streets welcomes Ealing Council’s proposed improvements to Boston Road and Lower Boston Road, recognising this as a significant opportunity to enhance safety and accessibility for all road users. They appreciate the council’s commitment to promoting active travel, particularly in light of the high-quality separated cycle track in Hounslow, which serves as a benchmark for what can be achieved in Ealing.

Their suggestions align with the council’s goals of creating safer routes and reducing dependency on motor vehicles by offering attractive alternatives for active travel. They are optimistic that by incorporating these improvements, the council can create a safer, more user-friendly environment that encourages walking and cycling for all. Read Better Ealing Boston Road and Lower Boston Road Improvements for full details.

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