Motorcycle lobbying group The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has unveiled its response to the Department for Transport’s Integrated Transport Strategy consultation “Call for Ideas”. The NMC proposals request the DfT includes motorcycling as an integral part of new transport policy, alongside cars, public transport, cycling and walking.
At the top level, the NMC is asking for four main policy approaches to biking: integration within transport policy at all levels, integration between motorcycling and other modes, local policies which reduce rider vulnerability and facilitate journeys for those who ride, and a refreshed Government Motorcycling Strategy to facilitate the development of motorcycling as part of an overall integrated national network of transport.
NMC executive director Craig Carey-Clinch said: “Motorcycling is a dynamic transport sector which, aside from being a viable and attractive alternative mode of transport, also represents a notable contribution to society, the environment and the economy. Motorcycles already contribute to a low-carbon future, and their wider use can accelerate progress towards this end. Traffic congestion and pollution can be cut at a stroke through a modal shift to commuter motorcycles right now.
“We call on the DfT to recognise the potential that motorcycling offers to transport policy within the forthcoming Integrated Transport Strategy and alongside this, to work with the NMC to develop a positive policy approach to support those who ride both now and in the future.”
More details on the proposal are on the NMC website: www.uknmc.org.