AARON KENT
A comprehensive survey by the National Transport Authority has found that residents in Waterford’s Metropolitan Area want to cycle more, walk more, use public transport more, and drive less.
Working against this, only 52% feel it is safe to cycle in their local area, while only 47% of people feel it is safe for children to cycle in their local area.
The total economic benefit of all journeys cycled in the Waterford Metropolitan Area is calculated to be €9.5 million, with 30% of respondents saying they do not cycle but would like to.
Among many statistics produced by the survey, it is notable that 51% of residents in Waterford’s Metropolitan Area would like to walk more, 40% would like to use public transport more, and more than half agree they often use their car because no other transport options are available.
The total benefit of all trips walked and wheeled (using a wheelchair or mobility scooter) is said to be €57.5 million, or €1.14 for every kilometre walked or wheeled instead of driven.
Active Travel policies that change roads to prioritise pedestrians over vehicles have drawn widespread criticism in recent months, but surveys like this make it clear that self-propelled travel could bring major benefits if effectively implemented.
The survey results also suggest that alternative travel, be it self-propelled or public transport, would require changing a lot more than cycle lanes and traffic junctions. The entire experience of alternative travel, including pedestrian safety and reliable, convenient public transport, would need to be supported if people can be expected to leave their cars at home—a point that has been reflected in some comments at recent Council meetings.
The National Transport Authority explain the scope of their survey:
“The Waterford Metropolitan Area Walking and Cycling Index is based on an independent demographically representative survey of more than 1,100 residents from across Waterford Metropolitan Area aged 16 and above, not just those who walk, wheel or cycle. The Metropolitan Area is centred on the City of Waterford and its suburbs including Passage East, Slieverue, and Ferrybank in Kilkenny.”
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
