'Walking and cycling should become the norm for short journeys '

A report recently published by NICE (the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) has hit headlines across the UK. Why? Because it recommends that cycling and walking are better options for short journeys than driving. ( http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/13975/61629/61629.pdf ) This point, which a couple of decades ago would just have been seen as common sense, today somehow provokes debate. It's controversial to suggest that cars aren't the best way to get around! So why is walking and cycling short journeys better?

The report handily outlines the benefits to local authorities & government in a way that will appeal to them. It will enable them to better achieve their goals (or targets, if you will). These goals range from improving public health and obesity - which is what NICE focuses on - to reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. All good things. It also hints that big measures need to be taken to ensure that walking and cycling is increased, by suggesting other guidance on how to improve the environment to encourage physical activity (from Jan. 2008 - http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/11917/38983/38983.pdf ) and that the impetus needs to come from central government. It is necessary, the report argues for "national actions to support walking and cycling, such as fiscal measures and other policy interventions to alter the balance between active and motorised travel in terms of cost and convenience." NICE recognises that it can't do it alone, hopefully the relevant people will pick up the baton so politely held out to them.

What are the health benefits of cycling & walking, then? According to the report, these activities can:
 

Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Keep the musculoskeletal system healthy.

Promote mental wellbeing.

All of which, we can surely be in favour of. However, a national paper (I'll leave it up to the reader to deduce which one) has claimed that this is simply the 'nanny state' and focuses on a small part of the report which suggests that increased parking charges might provide an incentive to avoid driving. In our car-centric culture, anything which points out the downsides of driving is seen as an attack, as part of the 'war on the motorist.' This report is nothing of the sort. In fact it clearly shows, that by encouraging people who are able, to make their journeys on foot or two wheels, we will all benefit - not least, other motorists, who are perhaps making journeys for which their cars are a necessity. Reduced congestion benefits everyone, and freeing our streets from being clogged up by cars does too. Additional benefits, highlighted by the report of increased levels of walking and cycling include.

Reduced car travel, leading to reductions in air pollution, carbon dioxide emissions and congestion.

Reduced road danger and noise.

Increased numbers of people of all ages who are out on the streets, making public spaces seem more welcoming and providing opportunities for social interaction.

Provide an opportunity for everyone, including people with an impairment, to participate in and enjoy the outdoor environment.

 

If that's not enough, the economy is likely to benefit too. The reduced cost to the NHS of obesity and hopefully reduce car crashes (a fatal car crash is estimated to cost around £1 million). Congestion alone costs the economy nearly £11 billion a year, so reducing this gives a clear benefit. As for the argument that town centre shops will wither and die from reduced car access, car users have been shown to spend just £56 per week in town centres, compared to a whopping £93 per week for walkers and £70 per week for bus users. ( http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/customer-research/town-centre-study-2011-report.pdf ) Another report suggests that walkers and cyclists are the two highest-spending groups in town centres ( http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/roadusers/cycling-revolution-end-of-year_review.pdf ). So getting more people cycling and walking, or allowing cyclists and walkers easier access will surely improve the fortunes of our beloved high streets.

 

Some of the many benefits of switching mode of transport from driving have been very nicely outlined in the report. I'm hopeful that this will make some people reconsider their mode of transport next time they're about to hop in the car to pick up some milk from the shops, but the big change in our culture can only be made if local authorities and central government take this report and invest in facilities that favour bikes and pedestrians as much (or more) than cars. That's what I hope for and I will be writing to my local council and my MP to urge them to take note.