LIFE97 TCY/CY/077 - Cycle networks in Cyprus towns
Overview
Background & policy context:
Cyprus has experienced rapid urbanisation in the last 50 years. Much development has been unplanned, resulting in serious planning problems in urban areas. In addition, Cypriots show a high degree of dependency on the private car, and few use public transport. The improvement of the existing road network and the effective management of transport systems are central to improving the urban environment. The Cypriot government aims to manage future traffic demands through the promotion of sustainable mobility and integrating transport into the overall framework of sustainable development. The Local Plans of Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos are all based on this sustainable development model, and include the promotion of environmentally friendly means of transport. The use of bicycles is one of the components of this approach.
Objectives:
The overall objectives of the project were:
- Setting up of functional, practical and feasible cycle networks utilising the existing road system and infrastructure of the four main towns of Cyprus (Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos), in order to encourage the use of bicycles in the day-to-day activities of citizens and visitors;
- Promotion of a healthier, more economic and environment-friendly means of transport as opposed to the traditional use of the private car; and
- Design of comprehensive bicycle networks, the incorporation of these networks in the respective Local Plans and preparation for their implementation.
The planned activities included:
- Evaluation of existing Local Plans for all four towns;
- Integration of cycle networks into Local Plans;
- Preparation of a handbook for creating cycle networks;
- Pilot demonstrations in each of the four towns;
- Awareness raising activities;
- Public opinion surveys;
- A review of existing legislation; and
- Study tours.
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