Today! Wear something red and protest for better cycling in Sheffield

Hundreds of cyclists will take to the streets today in Sheffield to call for more Space for Cycling in the city.

In a public demonstration to Sheffield City Council of the need to improve cycling infrastructure, riders will depart from Devonshire Green at 10.30 this morning, in an event organised by CycleSheffield, the local campaigning group for cycle transport.

Ian Carey, Chair of CycleSheffield said: “Last year’s ride attracted over 450 people and this year should be even bigger! CycleSheffield is calling on our local politicians to make riding a bike safe and enjoyable for everyone in Sheffield.”

The Space for Cycling campaign asks for:

• Protected space on main roads
• Removing through motor traffic in residential areas
• Lower speed limits
• Cycle-friendly town centres
• Safe routes to school
• Routes through green spaces

The ride starts and finishes at Devonshire Green, Devonshire Street, Sheffield, S3 7SW. Riders are asked to gather from 1030 for an 1100 start.

Ian Carey said “Riders are asked wear something red and bring a bell or whistle or horn to make some joyous noise. CycleSheffield wants Sheffield City Council to see that many people wish to ride a bike and that more needs to done. I would love to see people who don’t current cycle feel comfortable about doing so. This will require much better cycling infrastructure than currently provided.”

The route is approximately 2.5km long, generally very flat and circles the city centre, passing the Town Hall. With so many riders it is likely to take around 1 hour to complete.

The route can be viewed here.

Space for Cycling is about giving everyone the freedom to cycle, but the Sheffield City Council cycling Inquiry found that 95% of people thought that 'concern for personal safety and perceived danger caused by poor infrastructure, road surfaces and traffic' was a barrier to cycling. The campaign is calling on the council to change this.

Ian Carey said “The Big Ride is a safe and fun event, and everyone is welcome. CycleSheffield marshals will ensure the group stays together and that the pace is suitable for even the youngest of riders. We need our politicians to recognise the wider benefits of making Space for Cycling.

"Together we can make Sheffield a even better place to live, with a healthier population, less traffic and cleaner air”.