A new survey announced today shows that 70% of Londoners want more LTNs and 60% agreed that all roads across the city should have a 20mph speed limit.

Most residents (76%) also believe that e-bikes should be treated the same as mopeds (taxed, insured and have a number plate) and 88% felt that cycle lanes should be compulsory when one is available.

Now in its third year, the Cyclomedia Urban Road Safety Index examined transport trends and road safety opinions in 32 European cities, including London, where 1,035 people were questioned. Perceptions of safety, active travel, plus laws and rules regarding road safety were all examined.

While the survey showed that Londoners are keen for more traffic calming and safety measures such as LTNs and 20mph limits, it also revealed that the rise of cleaner forms of transport are a cause for concern. Half of respondents (51%) felt that road safety is getting worse because London is not equipped for new forms of urban transportation (e-bikes, e-scooters, cargo bikes).

When asked what London authorities could do to improve road safety, the top answer for respondents was ‘better separation between road, cycle and bus lanes’, with 54%. Furthermore, 53% of Londoners agreed that councils prefer improving the infrastructure of motorists over the safety of other road users.

European comparisons

Overall, road safety perceptions are very positive in the capital. London came top out of all 32 cities when residents were asked if authorities do enough to improve road safety in their city, with 72% agreeing that they do. In contrast, at the other end of the scale is Rome, with only 28% in agreement. 75% of London respondents would also recommend moving to the capital, in terms of road safety.

The capital’s cycle lanes fared very well, with 72% feeling that its cycle paths are safe, ranking London in second place across Europe after Helsinki with 79%. Copenhagen came in third place with 71%.

In terms of safety overall, London compared favourably with 80% of respondents feeling safe in traffic, ranking it in tenth place, while Tallinn topped the list with 88%.

Cyclomedia specialise in creating 3D visualisations of outdoor spaces. The company develops advanced mobile mapping systems, capturing over 850,000 km of roads every year. Urban planners use Cyclomedia to examine and assess risk conditions, prioritise roadway maintenance and manage assets including traffic signs, lighting and other public infrastructure.

UK customers include the London Borough of Harrow, who use Cyclomedia services to advance its digital twin agenda.

Elizabeth Evans, Sales Manager UK, Cyclomedia said:

“It’s encouraging to see Londoners want safer streets with more LTNs and 20mph limits but many still have concerns about worsening road safety, due to inadequate infrastructure for new types of transport, such as e-bikes and e-scooters.”

“The survey showed that the growing number of e-bikes, which often travel at speed, is of major concern, with citizens feeling they should fall under the same legislation as mopeds or motorbikes. Low Traffic Neighbourhoods remain a contentious topic across London but while there is opposition, it appears the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for most residents in the capital.”

“With many different modes of active travel competing for space with vehicles, local authorities need new ways of understanding and planning for the competing demands on the road, pavement and kerbside environment, so the safety of all can be considered. Highly accurate digital twins and 3D models help local planning authorities to better understand these challenges, when creating active travel schemes and moving towards net zero, allowing stronger integration with traditional modes of transport.”

“The great news is that London came top in Europe when residents were asked if authorities are doing enough to improve road safety. This is really encouraging as it demonstrates that councils are fully committed to making positive changes and improving road safety for everyone.”