Mode Share
The modelling of mode share is unambitious for what can be achieved by appropriate cycling and walking interventions. Cycling has the capacity to carry a significantly greater proportion of journeys – particularly in the urban parts of the Greater Dublin Area. Interventions to support safer cycling, reallocation of road space and access to ebikes and other appropriate bikes have been shown to radically increase the proportion of people cycling in other cities (NTA Regional Modelling System). The NTA modelling should look at what role ebikes can play in supporting longer commutes and other longer journeys and should work with local authorities and public bodies to ensure that appropriate infrastructure is in place to support people to use these vehicles e.g. appropriate storage and charging facilities and lifts that accommodate bikes at Dart and train stations. If utilized effectively in the Greater Dublin Area they are likely to prove effective mobility aids and capable of displacing journeys that would not be reachable by regular pedal bikes.
Further e-scooters and appropriate interventions to support them should be considered. It is concerning if the majority of journeys by e-scooter are likely to be displaced from other sustainable transport means e.g. walking and cycling. But they offer significant potential for last-mile commuting and multi-modal travel so interventions around train and bus hubs in particular should be explored.
While cycling has gained popularity in net figures over recent decades it has decreased in use among women, children and older people. This particularly contrasts with countries where safe and segregated cycling infrastructure is provided. This demonstrates the capacity for cycling to carry many more journeys if safe infrastructure is provided and the needs of women, children and older people in particular are catered for.