Appliance of science is creating the right cycle networks

New planning tools are identifying the routes with the greatest potential for cycling trips, explains Brian Deegan

The social, political and academic interest in the transformative effect of cycling on society has led to the development of number of sophisticated planning tools. 

At Transforming London’s Streets I will be reviewing these tools and highlighting how they can make cycle network planning and route delivery more efficient and effective.

I will showcase Transport for London’s demand forecast model which flags up the importance of certain corridors in terms of unlocking potentially cyclable trips. This is particularly useful when prioritising funding. 

Another interesting area of development is the network mesh density analysis that quantifies network coverage. This is useful for providing baselines to measure delivery master plans against. 

My talk will also provide details of the Porosity analysis, which highlights critical nodes in the network that open up whole zones to cycling. This can also be used to provide robust baselines to measure success against.

Many cycle networks in the UK exist in name only and are not backed up with a consistent high quality ride experience. Therefore, the Cycling Level of Service tool attempts to quantify ride quality in reference to the key Dutch principles of safety, comfort, directness, coherence and attractiveness.

I will also demonstrate some new tools currently in development at TfL and reference some of the other national tools that may be of use. 

A science is being created for the formation of cycle networks that moves us beyond the marginal opportunism approach of the past. Cycling is now a mainstream transport option and should be treated as such.

Brian Deegan is TfL's principal technical specialist in cycling. He will be speaking at Transforming London’s Streets.