Ealing Cycling Campaign
Newsletter July 2004
The tram line through Ealing took another step forward last month when Transport for London sent 400,000 consultation brochures to people living in the catchment area. They also began holding consultation meetings. The tram is planned to run along the length of the Uxbridge Road, part of the London Cycle Network. The current plans fail to make adequate provision for cyclists. The cycle lane - where it exists - is only 1.3 metres wide, instead of the optimum 2 metres, or the minimum recommended width of 1.5 metres. And in many places - particularly where cyclists pass tram stops, the proposals force cyclists across tram tracks at a dangerously narrow angle. The good news is that Transport for London are aware of this, and intend to upgrade the route. However, the tram will have huge implications for cycling in the borough, and it is important that cyclists' voices are heard. In particular, if you cycle along the road, it is worth going along to one of the consultation meetings, and checking that you will not be diverted from your current route.
Consultation Meetings:
| 23-24 July | Iceland, 47-61 South Road, Southall |
| 3-4 August | Waitrose, 2 Alexandria Rd, West Ealing |
| 15 August | London Mela, Gunnersbury Park |
| 6-7 Sept. | St. Mary's Church, Acton Town Square |
| 11-12 Sept. | Iceland, 47-61 South Road, Southall |
| 24-25 Sept. | Waitrose, 2 Alexandria Rd, West Ealing. |
"Ealing has best cycle paths in London"
Would you believe it? The London Magazine has rated Ealing as the top London borough for the provision of cycle paths. In a poll of environmental performance published in its May issue, the magazine rated Ealing top for cycle paths and 7th overall. The borough came 19th out of 33 boroughs for air quality, and 12th for green spaces. While the result is a compliment to the people on Ealing council who have worked hard over the years to improve cycling facilities, the Green party has pointed out that in all areas London performed badly.
Meetings
*Please note a change of venue for the next meeting*
All members are welcome at our meetings. We usually meet on the first Wednesday of the month.
The next meetings are at 7.30 pm on Wednesday 4th August 2004, and Wednesday 1st September.
Our new venue is downstairs at "Cafe Grove" on The Grove, W5. If you haven't been before you are very welcome.
P.S. The cafe does very good cheesecake and Polish beer.
