An active transport survey of nearly 2,000 people shows that the number of residents who ride regularly has more than doubled in the past 4 years. 18% of residents now ride regularly, up from 7% in 2017.
This huge jump in riding comes as the City of Sydney opens 3 new cycleway links, providing better connections between existing bike lanes. The most significant of these is a separated, 2-way cycleway along Saunders and Miller streets in Pyrmont.
The new Pyrmont cycleway completes an almost traffic-free route from the Anzac Bridge to the city centre. It sees over 1,500 daily bike trips, making it one of the busiest bike routes in our local area. It’s also an important regional connection linking suburbs like Rozelle, Lilyfield, Leichhardt and Balmain to the city centre.
A new link is also open on Liverpool Street improving an important route between Darling Harbour and the city centre. The completed works include a signalised diagonal bike crossing and a small section of cycleway that will reduce footpath riding.
A new cycleway on Chalmers Street near Central station is expected to open within 2 months. This short section of separated cycleway will link Prince Alfred Park to the existing Eddy Avenue cycleway.
The City of Sydney first carried out research into cycling behaviours, attitudes and barriers in 2006. There have been 5 active transport surveys completed since then and from 2017 the survey also included walking.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the research provided valuable information that will be used to help people ride and walk more for travel, health and fitness.
“This is significant data that will allow us to understand the barriers, motivations and infrastructure required to support more people walking and riding,” the Lord Mayor said.
The 2021 survey shows significant improvements in riders’ perceptions of safety. 86% felt confident riding on the streets, up from 75% in 2017. The research also shows the importance of separated cycleways. 68% of respondents who identified as potential riders said they were more likely to ride if separated bike paths were available.
View or order a map of the bike network including the new cycleways and read more about our active transport survey.
Published 13 August 2021, updated 27 August 2021
