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How Dutch Active Travel Models Could Regenerate UK Communities

Writer's picture: chris mcgchris mcg


As the UK faces the challenge of regenerating its communities and high streets, the Dutch model of active travel offers a compelling blueprint. The Netherlands is renowned for its extensive cycling infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly urban planning. By adopting similar approaches, the UK could breathe new life into its towns and cities, enhancing both economic vitality and social cohesion.


1. Prioritizing Cycling Infrastructure


One of the key elements of the Dutch approach to active travel is the prioritisation of cycling infrastructure. In the Netherlands, dedicated cycle paths, protected bike lanes, and bike-friendly intersections are commonplace. These features make cycling not only a viable option but the preferred mode of transport for many. In the UK, replicating this focus on cycling infrastructure could transform the way people travel within communities.


By creating safe and accessible cycling routes, UK towns and cities could encourage more people to switch from cars to bikes. This shift would reduce traffic congestion and lower emissions, making urban areas more pleasant to live in. Additionally, as more people choose to cycle, they are likely to engage more with local businesses, stopping to shop or eat along their route, thereby boosting the local economy.


2. Encouraging Walkable Communities


The Dutch approach to active travel isn't just about cycling—it's also about creating walkable communities. In Dutch cities, public spaces are designed with pedestrians in mind, with wide sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and green spaces that invite people to explore their surroundings on foot. The UK could benefit from adopting similar strategies, particularly in regenerating high streets and town centres.


By prioritizing pedestrian-friendly designs, UK communities can create vibrant public spaces that attract both locals and visitors. Walkable high streets encourage people to spend more time in the area, supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community. This approach also aligns with efforts to promote sustainable development, as it reduces reliance on cars and encourages healthier lifestyles.


3. Integrating Public Transport with Active Travel


In the Netherlands, active travel is seamlessly integrated with public transport, making it easy for people to combine cycling or walking with longer journeys by train or bus. For the UK, improving the integration of public transport and active travel could be a game-changer in terms of community regeneration.


By ensuring that cycling routes lead to well-connected public transport hubs, and providing facilities like bike parking at stations, the UK can encourage more people to adopt a multi-modal approach to travel. This not only makes it easier for people to get around without a car but also supports local businesses by increasing foot traffic around transport hubs. Additionally, this integration can help to revitalise suburban and rural communities by making them more accessible and connected.


4. Enhancing Public Spaces and Safety


Safety is a cornerstone of the Dutch active travel model. Well-designed cycle paths, traffic-calming measures, and well-lit public spaces contribute to a safe and welcoming environment for all users. In the UK, focusing on safety improvements could be key to encouraging more people to embrace active travel.


By investing in safer infrastructure—such as protected cycle lanes, zebra crossings, and well-maintained sidewalks—the UK can create environments where people feel confident walking or cycling. This, in turn, can lead to a greater sense of community well-being and encourage more social interaction. Safe and attractive public spaces are also more likely to become community hubs, hosting events and activities that bring people together, further contributing to regeneration efforts.


5. Promoting a Cycling Culture


The Dutch success in active travel is not just due to infrastructure but also to the strong cycling culture that permeates the country. Cycling is seen as a normal, everyday activity for people of all ages. For the UK, cultivating a similar culture could have a profound impact on community regeneration.


This shift can be achieved through education, public awareness campaigns, and initiatives that make cycling more accessible to everyone. Programs that teach children to cycle safely, offer incentives for cycling to work, or provide affordable bike rentals can all help to normalize active travel in the UK. As more people adopt cycling as part of their daily routine, communities will become more dynamic and resilient, with increased social interaction and economic activity.


6. Economic and Environmental Benefits


The economic benefits of adopting a Dutch-style active travel model are significant. By encouraging more people to shop locally and reducing the dominance of cars, local businesses stand to gain from increased foot traffic and customer engagement. This can help to revitalize high streets and support the growth of small businesses.

From an environmental perspective, promoting active travel can help the UK meet its climate goals by reducing carbon emissions and air pollution. As communities become greener and more sustainable, they also become more attractive places to live, work, and visit. This can lead to a cycle of regeneration, where improved quality of life attracts new residents and investment, further boosting local economies.


Conclusion


The Dutch model of active travel offers a valuable template for regenerating UK communities. By prioritizing cycling infrastructure, creating walkable public spaces, integrating public transport, enhancing safety, and promoting cycling culture, the UK can transform its towns and cities. The result would be more vibrant, resilient communities with thriving high streets, improved quality of life, and a more sustainable future. Embracing these principles could unlock significant social, economic, and environmental benefits for the UK.

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