Cycle network policy, planning and investment transformed by the Propensity to Cycle Tool
The Propensity to Cycle Tool (PCT), created by geographers at the University of Leeds, has revolutionised strategic cycle planning in England and Wales.
Issue
The UK Government is committed to doubling cycling by 2025. Many cities in the UK and worldwide lack integrated evidence on transport pathways, topography, and potential user demographics to optimise the planning of ‘whole bicycling network’ approaches.
Approach
The Propensity to Cycle Tool (PCT) project has led to the development of a web application that has had >35,000 users since 2017. The PCT models cyclists’ use of infrastructure, both for current levels of cycling and for scenario-based ‘cycling futures’.
The cost effectiveness of investment in cycle networks depends not only on the number of additional trips cycled, but on wider impacts such as health and carbon benefits. The tool developed reports at area, route level and across a route network for each scenario, providing an evidence base for strategic change.
Impact
The PCT has become the main Government-endorsed tool for strategic cycle network planning across England.
The PCT has been used by more than 35,000 transport planners, consultants, advocates, and members of the public, directly influencing the design and construction of cost-effective cycle networks estimated to be worth over £500 million. The tool informed the majority of UK local authority applications to the Government's COVID-19 Emergency Active Travel Fund.
In Liverpool City Region, the PCT was central to the business case that secured a major £16 million European project. It provided strong evidence to locate the 55 km of cycleways that will be built as a result of the investment.
The national charity CyclingUK used the PCT as the basis for its national campaign to encourage cycling advocacy groups to develop maps of cycling futures.
Internationally, the tool has been adopted by planners across Europe, USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
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How to cite
Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) (2023) Cycle network policy, planning and investment transformed by the Propensity to Cycle Tool. Available at https://rgs.org/propensitytocycle Last accessed on: <date>