St Albans Cycle Campaign - STACC

Lowering the risks

2012-02-10T13:48:00.003Z

Cycling Weekly magazine has been running quite a few features on road safety for cyclists. The January 19 edition looked at adapting commuting by bike to provide useful training for sporting cyclists. We are not all Victoria Pendleton or Sir Chris Hoy, but they use the same roads (well, mostly roads around Manchester) as us to get around and to keep fit. Conclusion - cycling is good for you.

There are hazards though - see the Times campaign. As well as supporting STACC and The Times in campaiging for improved conditions for cycling in general, we can reduce our individual exposure by choosing how and where we ride. Here are four pointers from Cycling Weekly, with my comments:

Watch out for HGVs
HGVs are involved in two thirds of cyclist fatalities in London. Many lorry drivers are skilled, professional and courteous. Many firms fit all the legally required mirrors and then some. But even then, there will be places where the driver can lose sight of you. Show them the respect they deserve by being aware of the constraints on those drivers and positioning yourself accordingly. Never go up the inside of a lorry - you are putting yourself in the driver's blind zone. You are also possibly entering the space that the driver is about to move into - to make a left turn, the driver often has to move the vehicle to the right first. Stand at the Peanhen junction and you will see this happen.

Stay central
Take the centre of a lane whenever there is a risk that a driver will try and pass you too close or turn left across you. Approaches to junctions and splitter islands for example.

Avoid congested areas
Take a quieter route and avoid tricky junctions. You will also be avoiding a lot of pollution. Looking forward to cycling through the park instead of grinding up Holywell Hill? Me too!

Be visible
Lights, bright clothing and position in the driver sightlines all help drivers take notice of your presence. Give clear signals - this also makes you more noticeable.

Twitter

2012-02-03T23:01:00.000Z

STACC is now on Twitter We're @stalbansbike, follow us!

The Times cyclesafe campaign.

2012-02-03T16:11:00.001Z

The Times | UK News, World News and Opinion

At last (some of) the mainstream press is campaigning for cycle safety. Visit the page (or buy the print version), sign up and contact Anne Main.
I've talked to the Herts advertiser about a local version, they could do something if it's aimed locally and supported by STACC. Anyone interested?

Five Miles to Fabulous ride - 12 November

2011-11-01T12:27:00.002Z

South Herts CTC offer occasional women-only short cycle rides on Saturday mornings. The next one is on 12 November. Meet Morrisons, Hatfield Road, 0930h. The rides are aimed at women who used to cycle but have not been out for a while and want a gentle re-introduction, or who have recently learned to ride and wish to gain experience. The pace is gentle and the attitude sociable. Experienced riders are very welcome. Bring some money for a coffee stop. More details at www.southhertsctc.org.uk

The Bike Show from Resonance FM

2011-10-19T12:57:00.000+01:00

The Bike Show from Resonance FM, possibly the world's best radio show about all aspects of cycling, is bringing their 'Listeners and friends' ride to St Albans on 6 November.

I'll try to get a route map from them so people can meet up if they want.

If you use twitter it's worth following the presenter, Jack Thurston, on twitter.

The Bikeshow is broadcast by London's Resonance FM, which you can't pick up in St Albans, but there are podcasts of the programmes on the site which are well worth listening to.

20 limits work, according to BMJ study

2011-09-07T08:54:00.001+01:00

http://www.bmj.com/content/339/bmj.b4469.full

Long term study of road casualties in London suggests significant reduction in casualties.

London bike film festival returns in Oxtober

2011-08-24T14:52:00.001+01:00

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/recreation/article/trav20110823-Bicycle-Film-Festival-Returns-to-London-0

Anyone going?

AA Streetwatch survey - to record bad driving behaviour - CLOSES 9th MAY

2011-04-21T10:53:00.002+01:00

The AA are asking everyone to do a survey to record bad driver behaviour. You need to observe a minimum of 100 cars while standing inconspicuously at a junction (taking about an hour). They are looking at mobile phone use, seatbelt use, speed being 'too fast for conditions' - so I assume anything above 20mph in a residential area should be given a black mark :-), no indicator, defective brake lights, and jumping traffic lights.

Survey needs to be done between 16th April - 9th May. Note you can only submit your results via their website.

   Details [CLICK HERE]
   Form to print [CLICK HERE]

I guess the more people that commit to doing this, the more evidence will be generated regarding bad driver behaviour.

Notified By (& thanks to) Alasdair Massie   CTC RTR North Herts

As Alastair says, be inconspicuous. If you wear a bright yellow cycling top, remove it before you start your obs, motorists change their behaviour when they see one lurking; I wonder why.

You can go to as many obs sites as you like & submit umpteen forms.
Be careful to judge the behaviour fairly & in accord with Highway Code - for example transgressions at traffic lights only occur if the vehicle crosses the stop line (or enters the ASL box) after the red light is showing.
Make sure the car is not left hand drive when you see the 'driver' on the phone.
I guess that driving over the centre dot of a mini roundabout means 'too fast for conditions'.
Some drivers have exemption from seat belts - never mind count them too.

It would be interesting to see some feedback on your experiences - so please add a comment to this post.

Results of a previous 'Streetwatch' survey are to be found [HERE], I expect that the survey related to this post will appear at the same URL.

Good cycling programme on BBC Radio4 now

2011-04-19T12:47:00.001+01:00

Listen in or listen later on iplayer. It's an excellent programme.

Petition to HCC on Safe Cycle Routes/Paths to Schools

2011-04-08T22:01:00.000+01:00

Thanks to those 36 STACC members who responded to my email circular of 5th April @23:28.
This brought the total of responses to 270 by the close of the petition on 7th April.
If I had not delayed and circulated the the details when I was first asked to do so, many more of the 200 households circulated would have had time to respond.

Reminder - the petition text & results are to be found [HERE]

Future petitions of this type will be posted in this Blog, rather than being emailed, so you need to visit the Blog at (say) weekly intervals in order to keep yourself up to date.

Guided rides for women

2011-04-07T21:21:00.003+01:00

South Herts CTC has now published the spring programme of Five Miles to Fabulous Rides. These are very gentle Saturday morning cycle rides using tracks and quiet roads aimed at women who can cycle but are nervous of traffic. The rides use quiet routes and also build confidence on the road. More experienced and confident riders are welcome, the rides are very enjoyable. Meet at Morrisons, Hatfield Road - by the cycle racks below the canopy. The ride will include a coffee stop. Start time 0930h, back by lunchtime. The dates are 16 April, 18 June and 9 July. www.southhertsctc.org.uk

Fantastic Bicycles at the Museum on 9th January

2011-01-03T16:29:00.003Z

If you have a child handy (under 7) take them along to the Musuem of St Albans, Hatfield Road, on Sunday 9th January and you can listen to the story of Mrs Armitage and her incredible bicycle and then watch them making embellished bicycle pictures. Sessions 2pm, 3pm and 4pm, running for 45 minutes. All children must be accompanied by an adult and the cost is £1.

If you have no child available, it is still worth going to the museum and enjoying the Lost Rails exhibition. The exhibition features former railway lines including what we now call The Alban Way, the Nickey Line and the Ayot Greenway. Highly recommended if you enjoy cycling these routes.

Cycling DIY

2010-11-23T22:01:00.001Z

- (small schemes with big value)

Though this post is incomplete, it is available for members & others to submit ideas relating to STACC Winter Public Meeting on 8th December 2010. It will only make sense to those who have received emails on the subject.
The Post will be completed well before the meeting takes place, but you can submit ideas straight away.

Submit your ideas as Comments - just click on the "Post a Comment" link & type away.
Please use your first name plus either your STACC membership number or your postcode to identify yourself on your comment. Do not put your email address (as this can get collected & used by spammers).

Five miles to fabulous autumn programme

2010-10-06T10:14:00.002+01:00

The autumn programme of women only easy pace rides has now been arranged. Rides depart Morrisons Hatfield Road at 0930h on Saturdays 9 October, 6 November and 20 November. The rides are aimed at women who have not been cycling for a while and now feel nervous of the traffic. Come along and we will show you traffic free routes and quieter roads, as well as some opportunities to refresh your roadcraft. Nominally 5 miles, and with a coffee stop, but note that the November 6 ride is a double helping and will be further and brisker. Experienced women cyclists are very welcome on these rides - just remember the pace will be slower than your usual so wrap up warm. The rides are organised by South Herts Cyclists Touring Club, full details on their website
http://www.southhertsctc.org.uk/

Giant store opens in Radlett

2010-09-06T13:07:00.000+01:00

Giant store opens in Radlett Bicycle business News by BikeBiz

Good to see a new bikeshop opening locally. Shame there is no coverage yet in our local newspapers

Dan Chapman, company director of the Radlett Giant Store said: “The store has already caused quite a stir in the local community – apparently a bike shop is long overdue in these parts. We believe we offer a refreshing retail experience which consumers are already embracing.”

Giant UK MD Ian Beasant commented: “We saw Radlett as not only a great opportunity to service the local community but also an accessible location for anybody wanting to visit a Giant Brand Store. The store roll out is having a very positive effect on Giant brand awareness and demand - this really is taking retailing to the next level.”

The shop website is here

12 Mile Bike Ride to Elstree Aerodrome

2010-08-03T22:17:00.000+01:00

Take off to Freedom

16 October 2010
10:30 AM until 04:00 PM
A 12mile/ 20km cycle ride.
Join the St Albans Cycle Campaign to enjoy the freedom of a gentle social cycle ride. Much off road cycling on good tracks, to Elstree Aerodrome, to watch the action. Please bring some money for lunch. Meet at Greenwood Park car park, off Tippendell Lane, St Albans.
Contact Doug Nevell - 01582 762120 in case of query
Grid Ref 513766E 204570N (TL 137 045)
No Charge for the ride, No need to Book - just turn up.

8 Mile Bike Ride to Colney Heath Model Loco Club

2010-08-03T22:12:00.000+01:00

Full Steam Ahead

12 September 2010
01:30 PM until 04:30 PM
The St Albans Cycle Campaign think this could be a memorable 8mile/ 12km outing.
Cycle to the Colney Heath Model Locomotive Club. An easy ride to and fro with train rides for children. A shared event with the Hatfield Cycle Forum Group. Meet at Highfield Park car park, Hill End Lane, St Albans.
Contact Doug Nevell - 01582 762120 in case of query.
Meet Grid Ref 517202E 206241N (TL 172 062)
No Charge for the bike ride, No need to Book - just turn up.

11 Mile Bike Ride to Stanborough Lakes

2010-08-03T22:00:00.000+01:00

Wing it to Water

15 August 2010
10:30 AM until 04:00 PM
An 11mile/ 18km cycle ride.
Make your way by quiet lanes, woods and traffic free tracks for a gentle St Albans Cycle Campaign led ride to Stanborough Lakes. You can relax by, on or in the water. Please bring a picnic or some money for food. Meet at Sandridge Village car park, off High Street, Sandridge.
Contact Doug Nevell - 01582 762120 in case of query.
Meet Grid Ref 516886E 210382N (TL 168 103)
No Charge, No need to Book - just turn up.

Decathletes village | News - print | Property Week

2010-08-02T09:21:00.000+01:00

Decathletes village News - print Property Week

Sports retailer Decathlon is secretly buying up land in the UK to create sports villages to replicate a successful French leisure concept and cash in on the 2012 Olympics in London.
Decathlon’s private equity firm parent company, Oxylane, has already bought two parcels of land – one of 150 acres close to the junction of the M1 and M25 near Brickett Wood near St Albans in Hertfordshire – where it is pursuing planning permission to develop Oxylane Villages.

A typical Oxylane Village has facilities for football, rugby, hockey, cricket, golf, cycling and athletics, as well as bridleways and sailing and watersports amenities.

I haven't seen any planning proposals on this but given the focus on sport- including cycling- it seems like something to pick up on!

St Albans Car Free Day 26th September 2010 (aka In Town Without My Car)

2010-07-29T19:21:00.244+01:00

Hosted by St Albans District Council (SADC)

This Post will be updated as various aspects of the event are developed - take everything here as a jumble of 'Provisional wild ideas' until marked as 'Confirmed'.

STACC will be supporting the event - we are having a stall in the marquee and hope to organise cycling activities.

I spoke to SADC on 11 Aug only to find that St Peter's Street will NOT be closed on the day - as had been hoped. (SADC did try, but it was agreed that only a full closure of the street to all motor traffic would have enabled the street space to be used for street games etc. This would have meant disrupting bus services, contrary to the aims of Car Free Day - which is to encourage all forms of sustainable transport.) I fully accept this - no further argument needed.

I suggested instead that streets without bus routes near the city centre should be closed to motor vehicles (eg. Market Place, Drovers' Way & Bricket Road) which, together with the open spaces around the Arena/City Offices should give plenty of space for different concurrent events/routes. This is being considered.
SADC are very keen to have as many activities as possible.
Having a network of car-freed streets & spaces lends itself more readily to such events as Mike's (see comment) suggested alley cat races, than does the closure of St Peter's St.

We are looking for imaginative ideas related to cycling - submit yours by adding comments to this post (its very easy).
(Do not put your email address in comments, if you are a STACC member you can use your membership number and first name as a nickname when submitting comments, then I will be able to look up your contact details, so we can follow up your idea.)

Non-cycling ideas can be submitted either by comments - as above - or directly to SADC Sustainability Officer Candice on 01727 819466.

Keep watching this post - you can jump straight here by using the short URL http://goo.gl/T7IF
(Don't forget to click on comments to see what ideas others have submitted so far, then help to improve on them.)

Some initial cycling ideas....
slow bike race
bike races for children
stunt bike displays...come all you BMXers
races: racing bike, mountain bike, recumbents...
mobility scooter races
family / utility bike / trike solutions
bike shops presence + Dr Bike
I guess that any races would would be over skill challenging obstacle courses rather than sheer speed.

Non-Cycling ideas using available car-freed space.....
(Those not viable without St Peter's St are struck out)

5-a-side footie and/or other games - ~~tennis~~, volley ball etc.

foot races - egg and spoon, three-legged
treasure hunts - observing hidden bits of the city centre

skating - blades/skateboard

~~Anyone with a land-yatch?~~

Fly control line model aircraft. Use top deck of Bricket Road car park. (Model flyers have good safety rules & discipline)
Model car racing
Music - marching/folk/rock.

Dancing folk/morris by those who can, plus conger/barn - for those who can't.

Food & Drink - out in the open - already in SADC plan.
## I note in the Review 11/8/10 page 3, that Hertfordshire Police choir are seeking opportunities to perform - suggest they be contacted.

Additions (11 Aug)
I have suggested that the middle floor of the Bricket Road car park be used all through the day for skating (board/roller-blade & hockey if viable) requires little organisation (participants of all ages generally seem to be able to organise themselves). Being considered by SADC.

In fact all floors of this car park might as well be closed leaving three all-weather spaces for events yet to be thought of, events intended for outdoors might readily be moved under cover.
I looked at it today and find that it could be used imaginatively for a number of activities. In fact it has a sufficient area to more than compensate for the 'loss' of St Peter's St. The floor is smooth & in good condition, the up/down ramps to the top deck lend themselves to being used in a more challenging bike route. I guess that the low roof beams and pillars would lend extra spice to five-a-side footie.
The lower deck has less daylight filtering in so might be less suitable for activities - but hold in reserve anyway.
More than one activity can be held on each deck.
There need be no time limit to use, as would have been the case with St Peter's St.
Using the Car Park has a neat CFD logic, in that it assigns space for people to enjoy, rather than to cars.
If SADC put up reasons why a car park can't be used for other purposes, my advice to them is to try harder.
By the magic of the car-parking space indicator boards on city approaches, the car park can be shown as closed.

Care should be taken with the siting of the marquee & market stalls - not near a loud music system.
Also need to leave the limited car-freed space available for fun events.

Publicity Needed to engage the folks - especially the young - of St Albans as soon as possible. Only six weeks to go.
Give CFD a high profile in Community News Wrap - (this is supposed to be issued in September, but seems to have been rather haphazard - need to confirm that the next issue will be September then need to reserve some front page space for CFD).
Get Councillors engaged with the idea and spread it to their Wards.
The event indicator boards on city approaches should give advance notice of CFD, (starting about now).
The message nearer the date should include the advice 'WALK IT! BIKE IT! BUS IT!'
(It seems that the method of making the indicator boards alternately advertise more than one event in a timed cycle has not yet been mastered.)
## SADC are expecting to have a Car Free Day page on their website, indicating progress during the planning stages.
## Members of the Environmental Forum should be able to come up with further event ideas. They should be circulated now. (Next Forum meeting is 13th September).

Meeting on Friday 13th Aug with SADC and invited participating orgs (inc STACC).
Young people should be included in the organisation stage, so they can tell us what they want.

Post updated throughout: 11/8/10
## Afterthoughts 12/8/10 shown thus

Bike Week 2010 - Report on Rides & Other Events

2010-07-01T10:08:00.004+01:00

Post Event report on the Rides & Events of Bike Week.

This is a record to help plan Bike Week in future & show potential members what we do.

We need comments from Members & others about STACC's Bike Week 2010.

This Post is still being compiled - but you can add Your Own Comments now or later as you think of them.

Bike Week Bike Week 2010 - Publicity Report

2010-07-01T09:53:00.001+01:00

Post Event report on the Publicity drive leading up to Bike Week.

This is a record to help plan Bike Week publicity in future.

We need comments from Members & others about STACC's Bike Week 2010 publicity.

This Post is still being compiled - but you can add Your Own Comments now or later as you think of them.

Alban Way Fault Reporting

2010-05-27T16:13:00.000+01:00

Responsibility for the Alban Way (NCN Route 61) is divided between two local authorities, Welwyn-Hatfield and St Albans.
The boundary is marked by the NCN 'fishtail' milepost next to the red granite seat just east of the Blackberry Arch.
Faults east of the boundary should be reported to pedalpoint@welhat.gov.uk
or Phone on 01707 357551 or online [Here]

Faults west of the boundary should be reported to groundsmaintenance@stalbans.gov.uk
or by Phone on 01727 819366.

Letter to Herts Advertiser,published 22 April 2010

2010-05-06T22:11:00.004+01:00

Sir:

Philip Gregory is wrong to accuse St Albans Council of installing dangerous cycle lanes on St Peters Street (Stop this planning madness, April 8). The responsibility for the sorry saga of a scheme that was supposed to improve the lot of pedestrians and cyclists in the city centre rests with Herts Highways.
St Albans Council, working with the St Albans Cycle Campaign, actually deserve a pat on the back. SADC reinstated the existing cycle parking that Herts Highways took out, and then added more. St Albans Council also brought us the Car Club, unfortunately there was not enough take up by the citizens to sustain it, and it was withdrawn.
Mr Gregory's suggested solution to the town centre parking problem will not work. In fact, all the many problems that appear regularly in the newspaper in reports and incorrespondence - parking woes, congestion, air pollution, city centre decline, potholes - are all down to a very simple situation: too many cars. The only workable solution to all these problems is: fewer cars.
There are more cars than parking spaces, there are more cars than the junctions can cope with. Fiddling with traffic lights or one way systems will not solve congestion, it merely moves the traffic queue and the consequent emissions somewhere else. Even potholes - yes, Herts Highways could do better, but the roads take a pounding. The roads would last longer in better condition if they were not so heavily loaded by nose-to-tail traffic.
The solution is more walking and cycling. No emissions to speak of, quicker and more convenient than the car. Yes, really. Correspondents complain of taking 20 minutes to find a parking space, which is enough time to walk a mile. Walking along Lattimore Road or Catherine Street it is routine to overtake a long queue of traffic. Even on more open roads, if there is a junction or traffic lights, a bicycle is as fast as a car: I always reach the lights at the King William before the cars which overtook me along Sandridge Road have gone. Lots of shopping? Bring a trolley, fit panniers on your bike, catch a bus or take a cab home - you've not shelled out for petrol or parking after all.
Walking and cycling are good for our health as individuals. Walking and cycling instead of driving means less air pollution, less noise, more attractive streets, more sociable streets, all good for our city and citizens. No doubt some readers will condemn this letter as 'anti-car'. They are blinkered. Walking and cycling are pro-people modes of transport that do not suffer from or cause parking problems or slow traffic movement.
Anyway, why wait for the Council to spoon feed solutions? Be a doer, get walking and cycling! You will look younger, feel normal and enjoy street life!

Rona Wightman

I am not as tactful as Tom Spaven when writing to the press, I am quite blunt! But if you allow for difference in style, I am saying much the same as Tom did in a letter to the local press published in 2007 - check out other posts under the Local Press tag.
Reading through again, I am perhaps a little hard on Herts Highways - as a member of the public I will always grumble that they should do better, but they do a tremendous amount reasonably well in demanding circumstances and that should not go unappreciated.
And they are brave enough to come along to our meeting on 20th May and promote 20mph, so whilst I reserve the right to grumble, I am eager to encourage and support our public servants in their endeavours to improve our highways infrastructure for the cycling and walking public.
Do use the pothole reporting section on the hertsdirect website, it gets action. Rona

Fabulous cycling for women

2010-04-27T22:44:00.001+01:00

Five Miles to Fabulous was initiated by the CTC as an annual weekend of rides in June 2007. It no longer happens in that format, but some CTC local groups incorporated 5MTF rides into their programme, and South Herts is one such group.

The rides are for women who want to cycle, but are inhibited by the state of the roads and the traffic and the lack of suitable group rides. The format is an easy ride incorporating a coffee stop, using quieter roads and traffic free-routes. The ride thus gives an opportunity both to gain confidence in traffic and discover routes that avoid busy roads.

Experienced riders are very welcome on these rides, your support and advice is appreciated! However, the pace will be very gentle compared to your usual club run, suggest you bring an extra layer of clothing in the cooler months.

2010 dates so far arranged

Sunday May 23, 1400h, meet at Morrisons (by the cycle stands below the canopy), ride to Earthworks Open Garden.

Saturday June 5th, 0930h, meet at Morrisons (as above), ride to Sleapshyde Methodist Church (coffee and plants)

Saturday June 19, 0930h, meet at Morrisons, Bike Week ride to Sandridge.

Saturday July 3, 0930h, meet at Morrisons, ride to Sleapshyde Methodist Church (flower festival).

http://www.southhertsctc.org.uk/

2010-03-19T12:51:00.001Z

If you didn't already know, riding your bike in the correct position on the road is a fundamental skill. The correct place is to ride at least half a metre out from the kerb at all times, then moving further out into the middle of the road at junctions.

There are three reasons for doing this;

1. Avoiding the glass, gravel and other road detritus which gets swept towards the edge of the road by motor traffic. Gravel is a big problem at the moment as it is generated by road surface breaking up around potholes.

2. To give yourself some safety space to move into in case a vehicle comes too close.

3. Most importantly, riding further out into the lane puts you firther into driver's visual field- simply put you're riding where drivers are looking and are therefore much more obvious. If you don't believe this check out the Institute of Advanced Drivers press release.

You can use the IAM's press release to counter any arguements with drivers!

Be safe...

Previously published here in 2007 , guidelines on riding safely.

Potholes

2010-03-17T12:47:00.002Z

My first pothole garden!, originally uploaded by thepotholegardener.

In here first-ever commons speech mentiong cycling, Anne Main spoke yesterday about the state of Hertfordshire's roads.

"Many of the council's future traffic management initiatives, intended to combat the congestion in the town, depend on encouraging more people to abandon their cars and to cycle, walk and, indeed, use motorbikes. Cycling is a greener and, potentially, an efficient, healthy way in which to travel, but given our current road conditions, that is often not the case for St Albans cyclists. Without investment in our roads, cyclists will have a raw deal and experience unacceptable hazards. Many of them are children, who may not be able to cope with an unexpected pothole as they are cycling to school or in the area where they live."

Sadly Anne did not concentrate on the parlous state of Herts Highways efforts to fix potholes. Funny that, seeing as the responsibilty for Herts Highways rests with the conservative county council...

Survey by the Institute of Advanced drivers

2010-02-18T12:42:00.004Z

The Institute of Advanced Motorists IAM has some coverage on cycling, incuding running training courses, providing consulancy and promotion. All good stuff from a driving organisation.

Currently the IAM is running a survey on cycling, which will be used for a press release. There are some questions in the survey, including options on 'What will help cyclists' and a Question about supporting the introduction of cycle licencing/regulation which could do with some input from those of us who cycle.

Vote here to give your opionion, the poll closes on 10th March. Make your opinion known!

CTC Ride from St Albans - Sunday 14 March

2010-02-16T21:57:00.004Z

The Central London CTC start their Sunday rides from railway stations, and on 14 March the ride starts from St Albans City and is led by local CTC and STACC member Rona Wightman. The train bringing the Londoners is due in at 0955. The ride is 'easy' pace ie about 25 miles, with a cafe or pub lunch and planning to finish off with an afternoon cuppa at the St Albans South Signal Box. The ride is suitable for families, with the proviso that parents supervise their children and are responsible for making sure that the ride is within the capability of their offspring (or be able to bail out with them if it turns out not to be).
Local cyclists are welcome to join us on this ride, you do not have to be a CTC member to come on the ride. It is possible that some riders from SPOKES (Watford area campaign) will join us. Please check the Central London CTC website in case enginering works affect the schedule: http://www.centrallondonctc.org.uk/

BMJ report bolsters 20 is plenty- 700 less casulaties in London

2009-12-11T12:16:00.004Z

The BBC is carrying a report on 20mph zones in London.

"UK cities should have more 20mph speed zones, as they have cut road injuries by over 40% in London, a study claims.
In particular the number of children killed or seriously injured has been halved over the past 15 years, the British Medical Journal reported.

Main outcome measures All casualties from road collisions; those killed and seriously injured (KSI).
Results The introduction of 20 mph zones was associated with a 41.9% (95% confidence interval 36.0% to 47.8%) reduction in road casualties, after adjustment for underlying time trends. The percentage reduction was greatest in younger children and greater for the category of killed or seriously injured casualties than for minor injuries. There was no evidence of casualty migration to areas adjacent to 20 mph zones, where casualties also fell slightly by an average of 8.0% (4.4% to 11.5%).
Conclusions 20 mph zones are effective measures for reducing road injuries and deaths.

The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine study estimates 20mph zones have the potential to prevent up to 700 casualties in London alone.
At 20mph, it is estimated only one in 40 pedestrians is killed in a crash.
This compares with a one in five chance for someone hit at 30mph"

"The greatest reduction was seen in children under the age of 11 years and in the numbers of all ages killed or seriously injured.
Cyclist injuries fell by 17% once 20mph zones came in, and injuries in pedestrians have been cut by almost a third.
There was also no evidence of a higher rate of casualties in areas bordering the 20mph zones, as in areas adjacent to 20mph zones casualties fell by an average of 8%. "

This is great evidence for 20 is plenty and counters some comments on the local press.
I've submitted a letter to the Herts Advertiser, let's have some more publicty from other people.

December Public Meeting - Speaker Stephen Joseph

2009-11-20T22:03:00.003Z

For our December meeting we are delighted to welcome Stephen Joseph Executive Director of Campaign for better Transport (formerly Transport 2000)

who will be speaking about local issues to reduce car dependency:

His talk is entitled "Moving around in a Saner World"

Stephen lives in St Albans and was our guest speaker in November 2001.

Additionally we will present all the latest local cycling news - and there's been lots going on!

Seasonal cheer too - mulled wine & mince pies...

Everyone welcome - bring family & friends and pass the information to neighbours & work colleagues .

When: 7.30pm Wednesday 2 December 2009

Where: Committee Room 1, (Lower Ground Floor)

St Albans District Council Offices , 

Civic Centre, St Peters Street, 

St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3JE

Looking forward to seeing you there!

http://www.bettertransport.org.uk

http://www.stacc.org.uk

Have you seen this stolen bike?

2009-11-11T12:19:00.002Z

The St Albans Review and the Herts Advertiser both cover the story of a Giant mountainbike stolen from Bricket wood:

"It is believed to have been taken around 5.25pm when the owner and a friend were sitting in the communal area rose gardens in the village.He had left the pedal cycle resting against a nearby railing and a man wearing a brown hat, white or grey hooded top and dark trouser bottoms rode off on it.Two other men who were with the thief at the time quickly walked away.One was described as around 6ft tall, of medium build and wearing similar clothes to the thief and the other was white, in his late teens or early twenties, around 5ft 10ins tall with light brown hair. He was wearing a white Adidas hooded top, jeans and white trainers" reports the Advertiser.

Keep youyr eyes open and contact Pc Woods on 0845 33 00 222 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111- especially if you're offered this bike second-hand.

STACC Calendar of Events & Meetings

2009-11-03T15:01:00.012Z

This is a constantly updated calendar of STACC Events & other local cycling events of interest.
Included are Rides, Meetings (restricted or public) & Social events.
Tell us (via a comment) of any other stuff which might be included.
You can use it in Week, Month or Agenda view, by clicking on the tab.
Agenda View is best - so it's the default setting.
Non-STACC events are included, but they are beyond our control. If you know of changes to any of them please advise - by comment.

To get direct access to the calendar without visiting this Blog, browse to tinyurl.com/stacc-calendar - easy to remember.

Existing Calendar Users
If you are a user of your own on-line calendar or MS Outlook or any other organizer which supports ical, you should be able to display STACC calendar alongside your other calendars.

Please use the following address to access your calendar from other applications. You can copy and paste this into any calendar product that supports the ical format.

http://www.google.com/calendar/ical/lacv78bl27fdf1tulltm1babdo%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics

(As advised in comment below - Thanks to Peter.)

Short trip within St Albans Sun 8th Nov 2009

2009-10-05T22:26:00.007+01:00

A short afternoon social trip from Marshalswick Quadrant to the Organ Museum, mostly off road, via Jersey Lane, Oaklands, Highfield and the Camp Cycleway - returning before lighting up time via Fleetville quiet roads (for those needing to return there - or go straight home).

Date: Sun 8th Nov 2009

Meet: Marshalswick Quadrant, St Albans.

Time : 13:30

No charge for the ride, no need to book.

There is an admission charge for the Organ Museum.

(The Museum opens at 14:00.)

Leader: Doug Nevell - phone 01582 762120 in case of queries.

More about the Organ Museum [HERE]

And a little taster of its quaint sounds & sights [HERE]

Afternoon Ride to Welwyn Sat 17th October 12 Miles

2009-10-05T22:14:00.004+01:00

An easy afternoon ride (about 12 miles total)

To: Welwyn's Roman Bath House

Date: Sat 17th October 2009

Meet: Sandridge car park

Time: 13:30

No need to book. No Charge.

Leader: Rona - Phone 01727 836470 in case of queries.

St Albans Car Free Day 2009 - Success

2009-09-29T11:00:00.008+01:00

Picture by phatcontroller

St Albans 2009 Car Free Day (announced in an earlier post ) was welcomed as a modest success. In this, the first year that St Albans District Council (SADC) has promoted the event, the aim had not been to attempt to reduce the volume of car traffic in the city.

In the end, four stalls were manned - STACC's own, Transition St Albans [see], Intalink (Public Transport) [see] & SADC.

There was to have been a Travelwise/Intalink bus as well, but it is thought to have broken down. (Happily my bike showed better reliability in transporting the contents of the STACC display.)

I must thank the 14 STACC members who turned up to assist and support. It was a remarkable turnout at such short notice & on a working day. Some of you stretched your lunch hours to be there. Your presence was extremely encouraging and generated much additional public interest in our stall and in the whole event. In fact we ran out of stocks of free maps and literature well before the end of the event.

The Slow Bike Race was - significantly - won by St Albans' cycling Mayor - Councillor Chris Oxley, STACC member Pat was second. I am at pains to stress that Pat (who had been much fancied to win) was NOT under team orders allow the Mayor to win.

I believe that SADC will be encouraged by the support given & will, we hope, be able to host a larger well planned event in future years - STACC will be urging them to do so.

UPDATE - 29/7/2010 - by STACC Tom

Date for CAR FREE DAY 2010 is Sunday 26th September.

(Provisional date had been given as 19th Sept - so please change your diaries.)

Five Miles to fabulous - Saturday 10 October

2009-09-28T12:08:00.003+01:00

This is a led ride for women only, organised by the Cyclists Touring Club, with the aim of encouraging less experienced or 'I've not been on my bike in ages' women riders to venture out. We will ride out from central St Albans along the Alban Way to Sleapshyde. There will be some on-road riding to get to and from the Alban Way and to give road-craft experience.
Meet on Saturday 10 October at 0930h at the Faber Maunsell office on Upper Marlborough Road, coffee stop at Sleapshyde Methodist Church. Experienced riders are very welcome, but they need to be able to maintain a gentle pace!

Rona Wightman, ride leader

Cycle Show - London 8-11 October 2009

2009-09-16T13:37:00.003+01:00

The Cycle Show 8 - 11 October 2009
Thursday 8th October	10:00am - 7:00pm	Trade and Press only
Friday 9th October	10:00am - 6:00pm	Open to the Public
Saturday 10th October	10:00am - 6:00pm	Open to the Public
Sunday 11th October	10:00am - 5:00pm	Open to the Public

The Cycle Show 2009 is being held at
Earls Court Exhibition Centre
Warwick Road
London
SW5 9TA

Details [HERE]

Book in advance and get your ticket for only £10* (normal price of £14.50 on the door).

St Albans Car Free Day 2009 (aka In Town Without My Car)

2009-09-08T18:40:00.016+01:00

St Albans District Council (SADC) is promoting Car Free Day on Tuesday 22 September 2009.

STACC will be supporting the event with the aim of encouraging cycling (of course).

This is the first time St Albans has participated in this international event (part of European Mobility Week) and it seems that the idea came rather too late to organise a grand, well supported event, so we would expect the proceedings to be quite modest.

Nevertheless, STACC enthusiastically welcomes this small beginning and hopes for greater things in future years.

Our aim is not to criticise people for using cars, nor to be prescriptive about any behaviour - except where road safety is involved. Rather we seek to encourage cycling by emphasising its practicality, low cost, convenience and enjoyment. We have become aware, over many years, that there is a latent desire by many people to get into cycling, having recognised those qualities.

We see this as another opportunity to engage with St Albans folk to help them overcome any anxieties and difficulties with advice based on our collective experience.

The SADC display will be situated in front of the Old Town Hall, St Peter's Street, St Albans from 10am to 4pm on the day.

We will be manning one of the six stalls. We will have a selection of free literature, maps and chatty advice.

Other stallholders, beside SADC itself, will include Travelwise, Addiktion Cycle Shop, and probably some voluntary organisations such as Friends of the Earth.

We look forward to seeing you there.

EXTRA: FREE BREAKFAST FOR CYCLISTS WHO ARRIVE BETWEEN 10 am & NOON.

(STACC SCOOP: This Post is the first on-line News of this event. At the time of posting, a Press Release had not been published, nor had the event appeared on SADC website www.stalbans.gov.uk Home Page - where we will expect to find it any time soonish.... When it does appear, take a look to find the finalised details.)

Make your own maps

2009-08-12T12:44:00.003+01:00

opencyclemapsnorbens, originally uploaded by mike1727.

Cyclemaps are eternally out of date, copyrighted or just in the wrong format. Lots of effort is made by a whole host of people to map and edit their own versions, so wouldn't it be a good idea to at least capture the data in non-copyrighted format where people can re-use it as well as displaying the most up to date map produced by people like you and me...

That's where the Open Cyclemap project comes in. Part of the Openstreetmap project, the Open Cyclemap is a user-edited map of cycle routes.

All you need to do is join in using a gps (including any mobile phone with a GPS!) to map official cycle routes, then add them to the map. You can also add bike racks, crossings, bike shops- in fact pretty much anything to the Open Street Map- bike related stuff is them picked up and added to the Open Cycle map.

Have a look here for more info. If you decide to join in please add a comment to this post, it would be good to get a few other users together to make this easier!

Commitee members- do we have any maps of bike racks/routes which we can add quickly and easily?

New Alban Way crossing Sutton Road

2009-07-29T13:09:00.001+01:00

New Alban Way Bit, originally uploaded by phatcontroller.

Welwyn Hatfield "Pedalpoint" service is no more

2009-07-23T23:28:00.004+01:00

The one-stop cycling service run for several years by Wel-Hat Council - dealing with all cycling matters in the district (Cycle Maps, Cycle Path problems etc.) is no longer in operation.
The staff member who normally staffed the service has been moved to another post and there seems little prospect of a replacement.
The service is still widely advertised on thousands of copies of cycling/walking maps relating to the Wel-Hat District and beyond, which have been distributed over a number of years.
If you wish to enquire about any cycling service, it is no use trying the advertised phone number or the email address: pedalpoint@welhat......

If anyone discovers that this service (or one like it) has been restored please advise us by adding a comment to this post.

As far as I know WelHat was the only district in Herts to run this sort of service - please advise us if you know of others.

If you need advice, we at St Albans Cycle Campaign will always try to help. Contact us by email, address can be found on www.stacc.org.uk

North Orbital - A414/A405 Footway Sharing

2009-07-23T18:30:00.006+01:00

STACC has been campaigning for a many years to have the footway of the North Orbital Road changed to a shared path for cycles and pedestrians. Without success so far.

A new approach is being taken right now, by exploiting the provision that any person or group can address the Highways Joint Members' Panel (HJMP) of St Albans District Council (SADC) on any relevant matter - provided that the action is supported by a petition with a number of signatures. STACC had to provide at least 30 signatures. We asked the members to respond - which they have done with great enthusiasm in very few days - with the result that no less than 125 signatures have been received.
Many thanks to everyone for your support.

So this evening (23 July 2009) at 7 pm, Steve is able to go ahead and address the meeting - for just 3 well filled minutes. So Good Luck to him.

Update 25 July : One of the Councillors on the HJMP told me that Steve gave an impressive presentation, which was very well received by the panel.
In fact the Chair of the panel Councillor Aislinn Lee, on hearing the size of our petition, declared "Make that 126," and promptly signed it herself - probably breaking all rules of protocol. (STACC-Tom)

Watch this space for further progress.

M10 becomes A414

2009-07-14T22:37:00.003+01:00

The M10 from Park Street Roundabout to M1 Junction 8 has now been de-trunked and become part of the A414.
This means that it is legal to cycle on it. Not a particularly pleasurable experience but it does offer the most direct route between Park Street & Hemel Hempstead.
Hard shoulders have been retained, so you are able to ride well separated from the running lanes for the majority of the route.
At the north end, north bound, there is no hard shoulder, only an edge-of-carriageway line a metre or so from the edge of the black top, which affords some degree of separation. Traffic lights control the merge with traffic which has left the south bound lane of the M1. Beyond this, towards Hemel, there appears to be no facility you can use for segregated cycling.
At the north end, south bound, again there is no hard shoulder. The split point of M1 north bound traffic from A414 traffic offers serious conflict possibilities. The narrow 'lane' inside the edge-of-carriageway is rather more usable because of a smoothly contoured water run-off gutter gives a greater effective width.
At the south end, the hard shoulders do not start/end at the roundabout, but fall short by some 20 metres.
I believe that there were once cycle lane markings at the north end, but these have now been removed.
I have not cycled the road yet, only observed it whilst driving a car, so I will have missed some details. These will be added when available, possibly with a few photos.
I believe that it is much less dangerous to use than the A414 between Hatfield & Hertford (which I have ridden at a fairly busy time) where there is no hard shoulder or footway to use to avoid traffic & no lighting. The old M10 retains its full motorway standard lighting, all the way to Hemel.
Clearly there are points which demand great care, judgement & experience. I suggest you make your own recce by car before riding the route.
Please add informed comments to this post.

Pedal for Your Picnic - 12 Mile Ride - 11 July 2009

2009-07-10T11:08:00.005+01:00

11 July 2009
10:30 AM until 04:00 PM

A circular route through the site of the new Heartwood Forest (12miles / 19.3km)

A meandering, circular route through the new Woodland Trust Heartwood Forest site, via Harpenden Common and Rothamsted, and part of the Nickey Line. Off-road sections. Share a picnic en route (weather permitting!) or enjoy a cosy pub lunch. Bring a picnic or some money for food at the pub.
Meet at the Roman Museum car park, St Michael's Street, St Albans (Verulamium Park). There is a charge for car parking.

Contact Doug Nevell (St Albans Cycle Campaign)01582 762120

Grid Ref 513640E 207250N (TL 136 072)

Two more rides in this series led by Doug later this year are

09 August 2009 10:00 AM until 04:30 PM 22miles around St Albans
12 September 2009 10:30 AM until 04:30 PM 14miles circular route includes Grand Union Canal

In case I don't get around to reminding you nearer the time,
you can find details of these on line [HERE] & [HERE]
Or Use the booklet 'Walks & More' in any Library
Or contact Doug as above.

2009 London Freewheel - 20th September

2009-07-09T23:24:00.005+01:00

The third annual London Freewheel, known this year as the Mayor of London's Skyride, will be held on Sunday 20 September 2009.

Advance Notice of this Event....

.....which is (like previous years) the closure of several miles of London's major roads to motor traffic, allowing you and your family to do a sightseeing tour of many of the major attractions, by bike, unhurried and unworried by motor vehicles.

Click [HERE] to see finalised details.

There is a free sign-up/registration procedure - but I don't quite see what the purpose is - up to you really. Nobody is going to stop you going on the closed roads if you are not registered.

If you take your bikes by train, Blackfriars Station is right on the route, but you will need to carry/bump your bike down/up the stairs.

If you are a rail commuter, your season ticket is valid for weekends too.

Remember that beyond the roads which are closed for the day, you can explore beyond their confines to reach other places of interest, provided you are confident in the traffic.

Also on the Saturday of the same weekend - 19th September, The 2009 Tour of Britain Cycle Race finishes in the heart of London.
See [HERE] for details.

Police arrest speedcamera scarecrow

2009-07-09T12:22:00.003+01:00

Evening Standard Story

Mr Strong, 58, dressed the one-legged straw dummy in a fluorescent yellow jacket from Halfords and a police hat from a joke shop for a village scarecrow competition.

But just a day after he propped the scarecrow on top of his privet hedge in the village of Mickle Trafford, near Chester, pointing its fake speed gun along the busy A56 main road in the hope it would deter motorists from speeding, he felt the full force of the law.
"It caused a real stir in the village," said Mr Strong. "The officers were rather brusque and told me they had received several complaints from motorists who thought it was a real police officer and that it could cause an accident if a car braked suddenly.

<..>

Villagers were stunned by the police response and Audra Goodall, who organised the competition to raise money for the local primary school, has written to Mr Strong saying: "I know many people in the village thought your entry was fantastic - surely anything which slows the traffic down through Mickle Trafford is a good thing."

She added: "Before organising the competition I visited the police to ask if there was any guidance to making scarecrows. They certainly did not mention anything about making a scarecrow police officer."
A Cheshire police spokesman said: "There appears to be a little misunderstanding. What we meant was that if a member of the public was wearing clothes like those the scarecrow was wearing, they could be prosecuted for impersonating a police officer.
"We did not intend Mr Strong to think either he or his scarecrow would be prosecuted."

So, residents of Sandridge, build your scarecrows!

Alban Way- Sutton road crossing improvements

2009-07-06T15:14:00.001+01:00

Improvements, originally uploaded by phatcontroller.

The Alban Way's crossing over Sutton Road is being improved, at last.

Bike Breakfast

2009-06-16T12:51:00.001+01:00

Bike Breakfast, originally uploaded by phatcontroller.

Photo from this morning's bike breakfast!

Use your iphone or googlephone to report potholes

2009-05-15T14:01:00.002+01:00

Fixmystreet has produced an application for iphones and Android phones to report potholes using your smartphone- just take a photograph, fill in some details and hit send- the app reports the pothole to FixMyStreet's website where it's mapped and forwarded on to the local highways aurthority according to your location. Easy as that..

I'll find a few potholes, report them and blog the results.

In other news, reporting potholes at the junction of House Lane and the High Street in Sandridge got a temporary repair done within 5 days- not a brilliant job but enough to make the junction safer until the road is resurfaced.

5MTF gets going again

2009-04-01T13:44:00.001+01:00

The Five Miles to Fabulous bike ride for women is an easy first step towards getting healthy, having fun and meeting new friends. If it’s been a while since you last used a bike, don’t worry, that is the reason for this ride! All you need to bring is a bike that works and yourself. (Well, and a drink and snack too perhaps, and some money for our coffee stop). The leader will outline basic skills and road craft and then lead you on a gentle five mile ride. Organised by the CTC – the national cyclists’ organisation.
That's the CTC blurb above. The 'official' five miles to fabulous season is early June - but rides can happen at any time. The local CTC group ran several rides last year. The target audience is women who have not cycled much recently, perhaps feel a bit unfit or nervous about the road. However, all female cyclists are welcome. The pace will be gentle, it is a social ride not a burn-up.
So, the first St Albans CTC 5MTF for 2009 is to one of our regular elevenses venues, the Sleapshyde Methodist Chapel coffee morning. Meet at 0930h at Faber Maunsell office in Upper Marlborough Road. Your leader is Rona Wightman, CTC and STACC member.

Mountain bike routes in Heartwood forest

2009-03-06T16:30:00.001Z

Can someone publish any details of route plans for the Heartwood forest? It would be nice to see some more technical routes as well as the usual recreational routes.

Spinney Path

2009-02-19T22:58:00.001Z

The path through the 'Spinney' (next to No 35 Drakes Drive - Top Photo) leading to Hill End Lane was open for use in September 2008 (when I first drafted this post) but not fully completed until recently.

The finishing touch - a generous width path across the grass verge of Hill End Lane to reach the intended destination of Highfield Park - was missing for the intervening four months. I happened to go that way today and was pleased to find it complete - Lower Photo.

The path through the Spinney itself is wide and well constructed, with a surface which has the appearance of loose gravel, but is actually sealed and stable to ride on.
Design was done by Groundwork Hertfordshire.
The gentle curves between the trees are very attractive. Smaller shrubs have been removed giving an open airy feel with good sight lines.

At the two ends there are slalom barriers to slow bikes down before emerging on to footways. (These were initially designed to be much tighter, which would have made them unsuitable for trailer bikes and child trailers. Fortunately STACC saw the problem just in time and wider spacing was adopted.)

I asked a mum with a child tag-along how she found the access and she confirmed that the barriers were just OK. If you use a child or goods trailer, we would like to know your verdict (just add a comment to this post).

What the Path Provides
The Spinney Path is the final link in the Camp Cycleway, which gives a traffic free walking and cycling link for the following destinations: Highfield Park, Highfield residential estate, Windermere and Camp Schools, Camp Road - Cell Barnes Lane Junction.
It improves the journey to Cunningham School and Cell Barnes shops.
Further afield, it improves the journey to St Albans City Station (just a short stretch of on-road cycling remains) and to the City Centre. It is a useful link through Highfield Park to London Colney. (It also ought to help use of Hill End Lane as a quiet alternative to Drakes Drive for those going to Francis Bacon School but the back gate of the school is thought not to be usable - since the school had the ancient right of way extinguished, in total disregard of community interests.)

History
The Spinney path was planned over 9 years ago - a detailed plan (No 5/99/1031) was completed in 1999 and put out to public consultation, whereupon several residents of Chivenor Place made a concerted objection (in spite of the fact that the path had been planned well before their houses were built).
The theme of their complaint was that all sorts of terrible things would happen to them if those awful cyclists were allowed anywhere near their back fences. Unfortunately their moans were heeded by a local councillor and a stalemate ensued. During the intervening years, STACC kept the matter alive - it has been on the agenda of every STACC meeting and Council Cycling Forum. I am certain that without STACC pressure the whole thing would have been quietly forgotten.
Gradually the scheme was revived - but then it was found that SADC planning department had lost all trace of the original plan 1031 making it necessary to find funds to redesign from scratch. Step by weary step we have arrived at completion.
Happily we find that the attitude of some (perhaps all?) Chivenor Place residents has taken a positive direction, possibly influenced by the STACC member who now lives amongst them! One even mentioned to a council officer how much they were looking forward to open day. Another, I notice, already has a gate installed in his back fence to more easily access the path - can't be more positive than that. I hope they as well as the rest of us will enjoy the benefits it brings

Major cycleway scheme to start – a final link in the chain for St Albans (NCN Route 6/61)

2009-01-26T16:14:00.004Z

Hertfordshire County Council News Release: 21/01/2009 PR 8084
Major cycleway scheme to start – a final link in the chain for St Albans

A major project will get underway next week (January 26) to complete the National Cycle Network in St Albans by linking it up with existing routes to the north, south and east of the city centre.

When the 4.4 mile (7.1km) connecting route is finished, it will enable local residents to cycle to the local railway stations and the city centre itself – or to the surrounding countryside for leisure activities. This is in line with the county and district councils’ strategies to encourage cycling as a sustainable means of transport.

The route, which will mainly make use of signed sections on existing roads, has been finalised following extensive consultation work and discussion with the St Albans Cycle Forum. It will carry on from the existing section on Watford Road, going northwards through St Julians, the city centre, Townsend and New Greens to Harpenden Road. It will also link to the Alban Way cycle track, which provides an off-road link to Hatfield.

Work will need to be done at the following locations to improve safety for cyclists using the route:

• Watford Road junction with Robert Avenue
• Watling Street junction with Vesta Avenue
• Path between Tavistock Avenue and Abbots Avenue West
• Berners Drive junction with Abbots Avenue West
• Path between Cottonmill Lane and Berners Drive
• Keyfield Terrace
• Path across Bernards Heath between Townsend Drive and Harpenden Road
• Path between Batchwood Drive and Therfield Road
• Path between New Greens Avenue and Harpenden Road.

Most of this work is due to start on January 26 and to be completed by the end of March, apart from improvement work on the existing path through Bernards Heath (which is owned by the Althorp Estate). This is due to take place in March, subject to a legal agreement with the landowner.

Hertfordshire Highways have worked in partnership with St Albans City and District Council and Groundwork Hertfordshire to design a route that will be in keeping with the environment of the Heath while providing better access for users.

Funding for the work is being met from the county council’s Local Transport Plan, plus a landfill tax grant obtained by Groundwork Hertfordshire which is being used to part-fund the work on Bernards Heath.

“We’ve long been committed to the provision of safe, signed, convenient cycle routes that enable people to travel in and between our town centres quickly and easily just by hopping on a bike, so we’re delighted to see work getting underway with this major partnership scheme for St Albans,” said Stuart Pile, Executive Member for Highways Transport and Rural Affairs.

“As well as the environmental benefits of cycling, there are also proven health benefits, especially if you do it regularly. We anticipate that the work will be completed by the spring – when hopefully people will be keen to try leaving the car at home and go by bike.”

Residents living near the project area have received letters detailing the scheme and information boards have been erected at each site.

Localised traffic management is required in various locations with traffic signals to be used during restricted working hours on Watford Road, Watling Street, London Road and Harpenden Road.

For more detailed information visit
http://www.hertsdirect.org/envroads/roadstrans/transplan/ltp/ltp2/newcyclestrat/

Thanks to John Metcalf for passing this release to us.

STACC have been involved in the consultation for this route for a number of years. The final choice of route and some details of design were not those preferred by STACC. Some aspects of our preference would have been safer, more practical and cheaper.
Changes in Herts Highways personnel during the process were not helpful.
Despite all that, we look forward to speedy completion - after which you can add your own comments here.

Five Miles cycle ride - Saturday 13 december 2008

2008-12-09T10:52:00.003Z

5 miles to fabulous is a type of cycle ride run by the local CTC (Cyclists' Touring Club), and usually they are for women only, but every so often we run one which is 'open' - chaps can come too.
The ride details are:
Easy ride to St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge, to visit the Crib Festival.
Meet at Faber Maunsell, Upper Marlborough Road, St Albans, AL1 3UT
on Saturday 13 December at 9.30am.

Note that Faber Maunsell will be allowing charities raise money from use of the car park on the Saturdays in December. On 13th December the charity is Fund for the Future.
I doubt they’ll expect a donation from cyclists, but I’m sure they would be delighted if some coinage was tossed in their bucket even so.
On this occasion any males who are able and willing to ride slowly and gracefully would be welcome to ride along with us.
It’s not a ‘family’ ride, but any children on childseats, trailers, tandems or roadworthy on their own wheels would also be welcome.

Contact: Rona Wightman tel 020 8784 5533 (mornings) 01727 836470 (evenings).

Posted on Rona's behalf

Bike recycling

2008-11-25T16:41:00.001Z

Superposition, originally uploaded by annyia.

I'm looking for a hack bike for the winter since I don't have a bike which takes mudguards. I have little or no money to spend on this..

Ideally I'd like to build up or removate an old bike, preferably at a biek recycling scheme. Does anyone know if there are any in Hertfordshire?

Cycling Tips (Letter to Review Newspaper 19th Nov)

2008-11-24T12:47:00.006Z

Sir,
I feel I must reply to your correspondent S Turner (ST) (Review November 5) as I am concerned for ST's welfare.

Complaining - as we all are - about the poor state of our roads, ST states that "cyclists spend most of our time close to the kerb and . endure the bump down on to (sunken) drains every few metres" and that it is necessary to come out into the road to avoid them.

I am pleased to see that ST is a keen commuting and leisure cyclist so I am surprised that she/he takes up such an inappropriate position on the road.

The following may be helpful to other readers, perhaps also to ST.

Cycling close to the kerb is often an indication of the inexperienced or untrained beginner cyclist, who assumes that he/she must keep out of the way of those much more important motorists. They almost apologise for being on the road and do not see themselves as having a right to be there as a legitimate part of the traffic.

However they are putting themselves at a severe disadvantage or even at greater risk than adopting and maintaining the correct position some way from the side of the road.

They will not register in the consciousness of many drivers who, as a result, will not allow any space at all when overtaking.

Assert your right to be on the road, see yourself as being part of the traffic behaving responsibly, cooperatively and consistently.

As a general guide you should be cycling about one metre from the kerb (i.e. measured from kerb to wheel centre line), this will give you a bit of space to move left if you encounter a pothole, manhole or oily patch in your path, or if a vehicle passes you a bit too closely. You may think that if you are further from the kerb, then vehicles will pass you more closely. In fact you will find that as you increase your distance from the kerb, so will vehicles tend to increase their passing clearance.

But keep a good lookout ahead for hazards (including pedestrians stepping off the pavement without looking) that involve you moving to the right - don't make sudden deviations - plan ahead and move out early and gradually.

When passing parked cars move further out than normal - a suddenly opened car door can spoil your day. Maintain your position, don't swerve in and out of the gaps in a row of parked cars.

Be aware of what is happening behind you with an occasional glance and constant listening (don't use an iPod or phone)

Do all you can to be visible - lights at night are essential and bright clothing is always advisable.

Cycle training is available for children and adults. It complies with the modern National Standard, addressing today's traffic conditions - visit the Herts CC web page at http://tinyurl.com/6fzpxj or the CTC training pages at http://tinyurl.com/5mrofm for more information, or contact us via www.stacc.org.uk .

Happy Cycling.

Tom S
St Albans Cycle Campaign

The above was published in the local Review Newspaper on 19th November. I am including it as a post as it may be a useful reference when replying to enquiries which STACC receives from time to time.
Space prevented me from putting more tips in the letter, please feel free to add your own tips as comments to this post. Comments on aspects with which you disagree are also welcome. Do continue to write to the local press about cycling issues - your own views. Afterwards add them to the Blog as posts, or email the content to us in order to post them for you. If you see an article or a letter related to cycling from someone else, try to keep the theme going by replying. Newspaper editors like a continuing story.

Cycle Lane Widths & Cyclist's Position on Road (Cycle infrastructure design)

2008-11-14T11:46:00.004Z

Comments from Google Group cam.transport
on Local transport note 2/08 - Cycle infrastructure design

Comments can be found [HERE]

"7.4.3 Cyclists can overtake each other within a 2-metre wide lane and
easily remain within it when looking back to check for traffic,"

Can we overtake each other within 2 metre width? I think not.
Two sets of handlebars at 600mm + four elbows at 150 is more than 2m; would require a great deal of cooperation.

"...or when avoiding kerbside drainage grates, etc. "

The authors are assuming that drainage grates are the only hazard - Hertfordshire has potholes as well.

"...Drivers do not always realise that cyclists need to move away from the kerb to avoid surface hazards "

But they are supposed to know this as they have all read their Highway Code!!

Pédaler dans la semoule

2008-10-31T12:27:00.001Z

Chocolate & Zucchini: Pédaler dans la semoule: "'Pédaler dans la semoule.'

The literal translation is 'pedaling in semolina,' and it means being entangled in a thorny situation, with the added notion that every effort made to get out of it is fruitless, or makes things worse. In short, being confused and overwhelmed, or being in over one's head."

Potholes- St Albans review R.O.A.R.(s)

2008-10-15T13:09:00.003+01:00

The St Albans Review

has launched a pothole campaign in response to news that Hertfordshire council spent more than two million pounds on compensation for damage to vehicles caused by potholes, with St ALbans accounting for 14% of the total.

"We want to put an end to pedestrians suffering trips and falls; we no longer want to hear that another cyclist is in hospital after hitting a pothole and we do not want drivers facing huge bills for car repairs"

They're currently looking for conributions on 'bad roads'

So, sign up to comment on the Herts review website and add your comments on bad roads. Make sure you've reported the issue first at hertsdirect.org or via Fixmystreet.com

Five Miles to Fabulous - Ladies Ride on 11.10.08

2008-10-02T21:25:00.003+01:00

For male readers - make your own way to tea and scones at Sleapshyde Methodist Church, 10 am to 12 noon on Saturday 11 October. Just off the Alban Way, opposite the Plough pub. This is not the only opportunity to scoff a scone that day, as Shenley Methodist Church is also having a coffee morning on the 11 October, also 10 am to 12 noon. So one or other or both, and did I mention that Methodist home baking is very good indeed?

For female readers - the St Albans Hatfield section of the Cyclist Touring Club (CTC) is organising another 5 miles to fabulous ride, led by Rona Wightman. These rides, promoted nationally in early June, but happening locally from time to time throughout the year, are aimed at encouraging less-confident women riders, by showing good routes and demonstrating roadcraft. Pace is gentle. Meet at Faber Maunsell, Upper Marlborough Road, AL1 3UT at 0930h, ride to Sleapshyde for coffee break, then back. Ride will make use of Alban Way, but will also include some on-road sections. Experienced riders are very welcome on these rides, your encouragement and guidance is appreciated! If you are a fast rider, please wrap up warm, you will be going at gentle pace on this ride.

citycycling .how to... build a useable bike path

2008-09-19T13:23:00.000+01:00

citycycling .how to... build a useable bike path

The fists few paragraphs look official...read the rest!

"In considering the requirements surrounding the installation of cycle paths and cyclane lanes this official guide has been produced as an aid to the process to ensure that best practice is used in all such installations. And when constructing such traffic safety measures it must always be kept in mind the over-riding principle involved: the impact on other road users and pedestrians must be considered and take priority.The first thing to consider is whether a particular road requires the measures to be implemented.

Where a road is very busy this clearly represents a danger to the cyclist and a dashed line to the side of the road will increase their safety level by a level of 56%. The width of the road must be looked at in determining the viability of this. If the road is very wide, and already accommodates cyclists, this shows that the route will be used by lots of cyclists and so the cycle lane is desirable.""

Herts highways- if you get it wrong you'll get it right next time

2008-09-17T12:53:00.001+01:00

Herts highways- if you get it wrong you'll get it right next time, originally uploaded by mike1727.

After turning up to add a few crappy patch repairs to the holes identified in white on the right hand photo, Herts highways finally got the idea to turn up and do the job properly, thus preventing return trips next year. Remarkably repairs also included other potholes nearby which weren't included in complaints as far as i can tell. Evidence of real thinking, for once.

Well done- but why wasn't this sorted out after the first survey visit, thus removing the need to attend site twice?

Cyclists make better shoppers than Motorists

2008-09-14T22:47:00.004+01:00

From 'Orbiter' a regular contributor ....

Something for the town/transport planners.....

http://www.copenhagenize.com/2007/11...pers-than.html

Quote:

"A survey carried out among consumers in Bern, Switzerland, established the ratio between the value of purchases made and the parking area used by each customer over a year. The profitability was highest in the case of the cyclists.
€7500 per square metre for cyclists.
€6625 for motorists. "

The main points from the European research referenced above were that;

1) Prioritising foot, public, and cycle transport in the studied areas made them more pleasant, hence more people wanted to shop there (increased sales).
2) As people on cycles, public transport and foot can carry less in one go, they made more frequent trips - whilst their per trip spending was (sometimes) less than that of motorists, over the same period they spent more.
3) The idea that people "needed" their cars to carry lots of purchases home was largely a fallacy (most motorists leaving with less than two bags of shopping, as I recall).

Food for thought!

Bike Repairs - Modest Prices

2008-09-02T18:49:00.007+01:00

Two keen St Albans Cyclists will carry out all types of bike repairs at modest prices.
I am confident that both of them are able to do a good quality job.

Ian on 07919 961905 or 01727 763223
Ian's a STACC member who has a particular interest in vintage & classic bikes (of which he has an impressive collection).

Sam on 07505 931194 or 07960 536039
Sam used to work as a mechanic in a local bike shop.

Both are Verulam CC members.

(By the way they don't work together.)

Traffic: Why We Drive the Way We Do - Book Review

2008-08-27T12:42:00.002+01:00

Some interesting things to think about in a book recently reviewed in in the Sunday Times - to
be found [HERE]
Thanks to 'Orbiter' for that snippet.

Drop us a comment - especially if you get around to reading the whole book.

Sustrans Jobs: Bike It Officers

2008-08-18T22:48:00.002+01:00

Sustrans has two vacancies for the post of Bike It Officer Up to £25,000 per annum
37.5 hours per week

The main responsibilities of this role will include the promotion of cycling to school at selected primary and secondary schools, supporting ‘school champions’ at other local schools and making links between schools and the bicycle industry.

One is based in Luton covering Luton, Bedford and St Albans (Ref: NCN568)
(this is as a replacement for Jason Falconer who has done an excellent job in several St Albans schools).

The other is based in Harlow covering Harlow, Bishop Stortford and Cheshunt. (Ref: NCN543)

Please contact Lyn Collins on 0117 926 8893 for an info pack.
Please quote reference number.
Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is Thursday 21 August 2008.

Pedestrians on Pavements Injured by Cycles & Motor Vehicles

2008-08-18T15:09:00.011+01:00

Useful Statistics which demonstrate and compare risks to pedestrians.

Extract from Hansard 16 Mar 2005 column 252W which you can see in full [HERE]
(The relevant article is near the bottom of that page)

Pedestrian Casualties

Rob Marris: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many pedestrian casualties occurring on a footway in each year since 2000 resulted from a collision with a (a) motor vehicle and (b) pedal cycle. [218488]

Mr. Jamieson: The information requested is shown in the following table.
Pedestrians injured on the footway or verge: GB 2000–03
Casualties

YEAR	Motor vehicles	Pedal cycles
2000	3445	77
2001	3504	78
2002	3432	65
2003	3453	72

On the same page (near the top) are stats for other accidents for the same years, including those for cyclists.

STACC Membership Count

2008-08-13T18:29:00.004+01:00

STACC membership has grown fairly slowly but steadily over the years since founded in 1998

Member numbers have a direct bearing on the influence we have with St Albans District Council and other bodies.
When indicating the support we have, we only count Paid-Up members (some other organizations are somewhat vague as to their support).

The current membership count will be shown on this post, for reference, updated from time to time.

Number of Members Paid Up so far this year is 480 (in 187 households) (41 households yet to pay so do not count)

Number of Paid Up Members at the end of 2007 was 484 (in 189 households)

Shopping Discounts for STACC Members

2008-08-13T17:50:00.003+01:00

STACC members can use their membership cards to obtain discounts from some local traders.

Here is the present list; it will be updated from time-to-time (it will remain on this post):-

Cotswold Outdoor, Victoria Street, St Albans: Outdoor Clothing etc 10%
(CTC members get 15% discount, for details see [HERE])

BRC Vehicle Rentals - Brick Knoll Park, Ashley Road, St Albans: Freephone 0500 600 742:
Vehicle Hire (cars, vans, or people carriers) 10%
(Offer is by the proprietor, a keen STACC member).

Addiktion Cycles – Victoria Street, St Albans. – typically 5%
(May also offer a discount to CTC members - which might be better than STACC’s - just ask.)

Of course it can be worth producing your card in any likely looking shop and asking if there is a discount. Let us know of any successes.

In spite of discounts, it can still be worth shopping around.

Five Miles to Fabulous - ladies' ride

2008-07-15T15:04:00.000+01:00

There will be another 5 miles to fabulous ride - the 'offical weekend' of 5MTF is June, but I fit in more whenever I can. Meet at Faber Maunsell, Upper Marlborough Road, AL1 3UT at 0930h. Intention is to ride some of my favoured routes around St Albans, stopping for coffee at Trestle Arts Base.

The ride is aimed at women who have not ridden for a while and wish to build confidence riding on roads. There will therefore be some on road riding, using quieter roads so far as possible, and there will be some off-road riding for respite and recovery. Experienced riders are most welcome, but the pace will be gentle, so come prepared to enjoy rather than work-out.

The rides are run under the auspices of the CTC - www.ctc.org.uk or www.fivemilestofabulous.com

SUSTRANS TravelSmart Job Opportunities

2008-07-14T15:44:00.004+01:00

From Sustrans' Steve Lockwood who is running the Sustrans TravelSmart programme in Watford.

We are currently contacting 25,000 households in Watford and offering them information, advice and support, helping people to choose to walk, cycle and use public transport more often.

Having successfully completed stage 1 of our project in West Watford, we are looking to increase our team members for stage 2 as we move into central Watford.

He asks us to circulate information on vacancies available with TravelSmart which can be found on the jobs page of the Sustrans Website [HERE].

Please contact him if you require any further information.

Steve Lockwood

Project Officer, TravelSmart

Tel: 01923 240402

Mobile: 07798 908446

If Herts highways can do this for a stables, why are there no 20 limits around our schools?

2008-07-09T08:56:00.001+01:00

If Herts highways can do this for a stables, why are there no 20 limits around our schools?, originally uploaded by mike1727.

Signage around the livery stables on Sandridgebury Lane. It looks legitimate signage- in any case it's on highways land.

If they can do this for horses why not for children?

Bike Week Report: City Station Bike Coding, Tuesday

2008-06-22T19:37:00.003+01:00

A concerted effort on Tuesday evening at St Albans City Station resulted in somewhere between 110 & 120 bikes being post coded (to help them to be returned to owners if recovered after theft).
We manned the bike parking areas on each side of the line, working in teams of two.
Many commuters complained of cycles being stolen - one chap had had 8 bikes stolen in the course of 20 years commuting.
We also gave away a number of cycle alarms which had been purchased at a generously discounted price by a group of local councils - one of which was St Albans. We understand that the station staff are required to respond when a cycle alarm sounds.
The operator First Capital Connect has recently also given out these alarms to season ticket holders.
Both FCC and British Transport Police are keen to reduce cycle theft, but according to some commuters we spoke to the operation of CCTV remains very unsatisfactory.
Another point of commuter complaint was the shortage of cycle parking places. FCC do attend the St Albans Cycling Forum and always indicate their keenness to attract passengers to cycle to the station. They have a rolling programme of cycle parking provision which is gradually being actioned with delivery believed to be on schedule. Let's see if they keep to it.
Be sure to tell STACC of any problems you encounter.

Bike Week: Increased turnout on rides organised by other groups

2008-06-22T18:01:00.005+01:00

Possibly as a result of the publicity we gave to the three rides organised by the Forty-Plus Cycle Club (Tue & Thur) and the Cyclists' Touring Club (CTC) (Wed), they both report that the number of riders was augmented beyond the normal turnout. 40+ reported 6 extras on both days and CTC 6 extra.
So thanks to both groups for welcoming the newcomers.
Remember that the three rides are held regularly every week (CTC two-weekly in winter) and you will be made equally welcome at other times - but the CTC always arranges for their Bike Week ride to end in St Albans, for the benefit of newcomers, on other dates it often ends at different pubs requiring you to make your own way home.
For further details refer to the runs programmes on the two clubs' web sites:
CTC [HERE]
40+ Tuesday [HERE] Thursday [HERE] (In case you've not twigged - you need to be over forty years of age.)
Be sure to verify the starting point/time for all rides before you venture out!

(CTC programme of Sunday longer rides can be found [HERE] should you wish to try them).

Both the clubs are the local sections of nation-wide clubs - regular group cycling is happening everywhere.

Verulam Cycle Club's Ride for a Reason today will, no doubt, have been well supported mainly because of the weather and perhaps a little by our supportive publicity. They too have regular rides and other events - see their web site [HERE]

I've recently heard of an off-road group which goes out every Wednesday at 7pm, ask at Rock & Road bike shop, Victoria St. I don't know the standard - might be quite genteel or on the other hand gloriously muddy - but they sound like a welcoming bunch either way.

On Friday evenings through the summer, you can take the short ride to Gosling Stadium Track, Welwyn Garden City and watch the racing - really good free entertainment, all ages taking part. The Welwyn Wheelers club runs the event and also takes on children from age seven offering racing training (on another evening) - so take your children - they (and you) might get hooked. Details [HERE]

STACC aims to support all cycling in the area.

Bike Week - Breakfast enjoyed by all

2008-06-17T13:00:00.009+01:00

It was a sunny morning for today's Free Breakfast in St Albans City Centre. The event attracted several dozen cyclists, many were members and there were many non-members besides. Amongst these were a group of work colleagues who commute from Garston and who had made a special early start to meet at brekky. Disappointingly (and untypically) no St Albans District Council officers attended this year, however we were delighted to have a cycling Councillor stop by for his bacon butty; he then went on his way to the day job - an hour's brisk cycling commute to Ruislip - now that is impressive. (He always cycles to Council meetings too.)
Above is the busy scene at 08:30 - two police officers were kept busy coding bikes (after startling passing riders by signalling them to stop - then asking if they would like a free breakfast).
As you see, the lack of bike parking places was clearly demonstrated.
Many thanks once again to snackman Dave with his Tasty Bites van for the supply of the breakfasts, and to St Albans District Council for paying for it all, as part of their promotion of sustainable transport.

The cabaret was provided by a passing duck and her six ducklings which marched down St Peter's Street, Market Place and French Row then across High Street (using the pedestrian crossing) then into Heritage Close, from where the mother attempted to continue down hill via the steps.
The ducklings found the steps impossible but fortunately a lady (an expert in duck herding it seems) steered them into Waxhouse Gate and off they went. (As they did not arrive by bike, we had no alternative but to refuse them breakfast, and Tasty Bites Dave was not prepared to negotiate over the supply of eggs.)

Bike Week Events - Off to a good start

2008-06-15T18:38:00.004+01:00

Dave's Mystery Tour - today - got Bike Week events off to an excellent start.
Though the weather was fine it was not as warm as one would hope for, however no less than 11 riders turned out - only Dave & myself being STACC members (where were the other 470 odd?)
The ride was a gentle 12 miles, almost all off-road, along the Alban Way and beyond then through Stanborough Park - with coffee stop, then return via Hatfield Business Park, back on to Alban Way and thence to the Plough at Sleapshyde for a modest glass.
The final leg was the shared footway/cycleway alongside the A414 and up Nightingale Lane.

The 9 non-members gave me the opportunity to go into recruiting mode (having brought a wad of membership application forms for just that purpose). Several folks expressed great interest, at least one of them appears keen to become involved in campaigning as a STACC committee member.

Bike Week Count Down - Farmers' Market Publicity Stall

2008-06-15T18:14:00.005+01:00

Our stall at the Farmers' Market last Sunday (8 June) attracted a great deal of interest and it was good to see lots of members stopping by.
This was an enjoyable opportunity to publicise Bike Week, give out cycling information (we ran out of stocks of several cycling maps) and continue our recruitment drive - a large number of membership applications were willingly accepted and one new member joined and paid up on the spot for two years in advance.

Publicity has been growing during during two weeks commencing 4th June, with posters indoors & out, large & small over a wide area (more success this year with outdoor posters capable of surviving severe weather - unlike last year),
Publicity drive was topped off with the quarter page advert in yesterday's Herts Advertiser which should prove very effective - a prediction which proved correct - the Tourist Office had run right out of event lists and had to be re-stocked.

Also during these weeks wide distribution of event lists has been made to strategic Pick-up points
These include:-
4 Bike Shops in St Albans plus Harpenden & Hatfield Cycle Centre,
St Albans & Harpenden Libraries
Tourist Information
Highfield Park Office (in box outside)
me - at 31 Willow Crescent (in pick-up box outside)
Morrison's Petrol Station
Smallford Post Office
(these last two being handy for Alban Way - local posters direct users to them).

Wads of Event Lists have been put in a great number of schools.
Individual parked bikes have been leafletted en masse at the City Station and on at least five different days in the town centre.

The range of events available is a fairly well established tradition - but making them happen is down to hard work by their leaders.

So all in all we can hope for the most successful Bike Week yet - grateful thanks to all those who have taken part in its organisation (which started about 3 months ago).

But success depends entirely on support from you and your families and friends.
So please make it happen & above all Enjoy.

See you there & there & there, and perhaps even there...

Remember that you can download the events list from: HERE

Five Miles to Fabulous ride report

2008-06-10T10:13:00.004+01:00

Eight ladies and one wee boy in a trailer enjoyed good weather for their ride from the city centre to Sleapshyde on Saturday 7 June. The scones and plants at Sleapshyde Methodist Church coffee morning and plant sale were excellent, we were rested and refreshed after our ride along the Alban Way. As a result we even had the energy to sort out a problematic inner tube on the return leg.
Five Miles to Fabulous is a CTC intiative aimed at providing gentle and supportive opportunities for women to get back on their bikes and build confidence in todays traffic. In leading these rides, I aim to introduce people to useful routes that they may not have been aware of and to demonstrate some 'cyclecraft' - the techniques of positioning on the road and reading and responding to the road and traffic conditions. The pace is calm, we have nothing to prove, we cycle graciously for our own fabulous enjoyment and benefit. On Saturday we were so un-macho that we let a running dad accompanied by his young son on bicycle actually overtake us.

The rides are aimed at providing an opportunity for less confident riders, but if you are a more experienced ride, do please come along, you are most welcome. The rides are enjoyable, and your experience and assistance is appreciated.

I have a busy few months coming up, so have no further 5MTF rides actually planned at present, but I certainly intend to fit some more in over the year. Watch this space. More about 5MTF, including rides all around the country at www.fivemilestofabulous.com

Mobile Cycle Repairer

2008-04-14T15:57:00.004+01:00

I have recently heard of a Mobile Bike Repair service called Cycledelik.
Details & prices appear on their web site HERE

I have no knowledge of their quality of service, so this post should not be taken as a recommendation.
If you use them, please add a comment to this post - use your first name & membership number as your ID when doing so, then I can contact you for more details.

If their service is OK and as they are local, STACC might request some member discount.

UPDATE: 13/8/8
Since the original post, I have found out more by chatting to Cycledelik (at the Kaleidoscope Festival at Welwyn Garden City).
I determined that they only have an office in St Albans - this had made me think that they operated locally. However their operating area is currently in London (with a demand for quick service from cycle couriers etc) and they hope to expand their area as time goes on - so I doubt if they will be operating near St Albans any time soon.
They certainly have a very professional attitude, so I hope they prosper.

5 miles to fabulous ride on 5 April

2008-03-14T12:18:00.003Z

The Five Miles to Fabulous bike ride for women is an easy first step towards getting healthy, having fun and meeting new friends. If it’s been a while since you last used a bike, don’t worry, that is the reason for this ride! All you need to bring is a bike that works and yourself. (Well, and a drink and snack too perhaps, and some money for our coffee stop). The leader will outline basic skills and road craft and then lead you on a gentle five mile ride. More information at www.fivemilestofabulous.com
Organised by the CTC – the national cyclists’ organisation. That's the CTC blurb above. The 'official' five miles to fabulous season is June 7 and 8 - but rides can happen at any time. The local CTC ran two rides last year. The target audience is women who have not cycled much recently, perhaps feel a bit unfit or nervous about the road. However, all female cyclists are welcome. The pace will be gentle, it is a social ride not a burn-up. The local CTC is kicking off early this year, with a ride on Saturday 5 April.

Two fabulous fives in one ride! Five miles to Hatfield along the Alban Way. Buy stuff including fabulous cake at Hatfield Farmers Market. Refreshed, we return five miles to St Albans along the Alban Way.
Meet at Faber Maunsell, Upper Marlborough Road, St Albans, AL1 3UT on Saturday 5 April at 9.30am. Contact: Rona Wightman
email rona.wightman@fabermaunsell.com
tel 020 8784 5533 (mornings) 01727 836470 (evenings).

London Freewheel - Sunday 21st September 2008 - Sightseeing

2008-03-08T12:25:00.004Z

Advance Notice of this Event....

.....which is (like last year) the closure of several miles of London's major roads to motor traffic, allowing you and your family to do a sightseeing tour of many of the major attractions, by bike unhurried and unworried by motor vehicles.

Click HERE to see current details - which are not yet finalised - as well as reports and pics of the 2007 event.

There is a free sign-up/registration procedure - but I don't quite see what the purpose is - up to you really.

Click HERE to see our blog posting for last year - which gives a few ideas.

REPORT EVERY POTHOLE - for the Benefit of All

2008-02-28T11:52:00.005Z

REPORT EVERY POTHOLE or other dangerous road defect - make a note of it as soon as you encounter it.

It is so important for everyone that dangerous potholes are fixed as soon as possible. Herts Highways are supposed to check for them at six-monthly intervals but of course that is too infrequent - we are in the best position to see these dangers, so let's report them to benefit each other.

It's quick and easy to report on line but the reporting method has changed slightly which makes it seem more difficult.

HOW TO Report on Line - Some TIPS & TRICKS to save effort ...

First of all, don't bother to find out if the fault has already been reported - this wastes your time.

Go to THIS PAGE & select fault type (e.g. Pothole in road)

Proceeds to "Locate" stage. Enter location & click Search. Often after clicking "Search" the location can't be found & you get a dumb response - keep trying! (e.g. For Avenue Road, you need to enter Avenue without Road!!).

Once the location is found click "Continue without map". Avoid using button "Locate using map" (it takes forever).

Proceeds to "Detail" stage, where sometimes several locations are presented, click the one which applies.

The "Fault Description" box lets you enter free text. If in your opinion the fault/pothole is dangerous*, be sure to say 'Dangerous to Cyclists' in this box, along with location information such as house number & other brief details of the fault.

Also using this free-text box you can report a number of faults of the same type at different locations in the same road - Saves your time.

In the Name section - note another time-saver - that you do not need to complete your name and address details - just enter your email if you want an acknowledgement.

* Herts Highways' definition of a dangerous pothole is 47 mm deep or more, we don't agree!

This is an update of the previous post on pothole reporting HERE where you can still find lots of useful information on reporting by phone or reporting to STACC so we can report to Herts Highways for you.

Sustrans employment opportunities in Watford

2008-02-08T12:58:00.000Z

From Sam Clarke
Senior Project Officer (Fieldwork Operations), TravelSmart

I wondered if someone could help me. I work for Sustrans in the
TravelSmart team.

With funding from the Big Lottery Fund's Well-being Programme and
Hertfordshire County Council, a TravelSmart Individualised Travel
Marketing (ITM) programme will take place in Watford during 2008-2009.
A total of 25,000 households across Watford will be offered a range of
personalised travel information and support enabling them to walk, cycle
and use public transport more often. The scheme will be delivered by
Sustrans and partners Socialdata with the support of Hertfordshire
County Council, Watford Borough Council and other partners.

The first stage of the project will be starting in spring 2008 covering
Holywell, Vicarage and Oxhey.

We are looking to recruit a local team of part time staff to carry out
the field work. I would be very grateful details of these roles
(attached) could be passed onto anyone within St. Albans Cycle Campaign
who may be interested.

If you would like me to send you some colour copies to put up on any
notice boards of the advert then please let me know.

Kind regards,
Sam

Sam Clarke
Senior Project Officer (Fieldwork Operations), TravelSmart

Tel 0117 915 0335

For full Job Spec Phone 0117 926 8893 or e-mail: jobs@sustrans.org.uk, quoting Ref: NCN5051

Closing date for applications is Friday 29^th February 2008

Alban Way temporary closure 11th Feb for 3 weeks - REOPENED 3rd March

2008-01-28T16:13:00.001Z

ALBAN WAY REOPENED ON MARCH 3RD - ON TIME

So the rest of this post is redundant.

Information from Debbi White, Assistant Estates Surveyor, St Albans City and District Council, Tel: 01727 819515 - summary of her letter.

Alban Way will be closed between Camp Road and Orient Way from 11th February for about three weeks (depending on the weather).

This is to allow for works to take place in connection with the Linden Homes & City Station development to provide mains drainage

BUT NOT YET (as previously stated) the (good news) cycling & pedestrian ramp from the site to the Alban Way, giving off-road access to the station.

SADC, appreciating the importance and popularity of the route, had hoped to keep the Alban Way open during the works, but for justifiable safety concerns (a 3.5 metre deep trench is required) closure was the only option.

The work will include re-surfacing affected areas.

Formal notices will appear in the local press and closure notices are erected at Dellfield and Orient Close.

The footpath from Dellfield to Vanda Crescent will remain open

Diversions will be posted.

[[ End of Debbi's Info ]]

Additional info from me....

The first week of closure falls in half term, so the impact will be reduced somewhat.

A number of local school have been notified, STACC have been asked to identify any others which we feel should be notified.

Diversions

Diversion notices in the form of maps are posted at each end of the affected section.

There are no directions posted along the line of the diversion route (only motorists get those), so I have prepared route sheets of my own suggested diversions (below). Please advise any errors to me by way of a comment to this post.

You can print clips from these to take with you if you are not familiar with the area.

Two routes are suggested, one almost entirely on-road & faster, for experienced riders, the other entirely a combination of off-road and quiet roads.

There is a different route sheet for each direction.

Alban Way closure 11 Feb 08

Diversion for EASTBOUND users - ON-ROAD Option

(Traffic conditions could be heavy in some roads at some times, especially around City Station.)

Halfway along Orient Close, instead of going straight ahead, turn left - up slope (also Orient Close)

At Roundabout (London Road Junction) go forward into Grosvenor Rd.

(Option use nearby pelican crossing).

Follow up hill to junction with Ridgmont Rd.

Turn right into Ridgmont Rd.

Go through line of bollards, bearing left (still Ridgmont Rd).

At end turn right into Victoria St. (often busy).

Over railway bridge, forward at traffic lights.

At next junction, main road bears left, go forward into Grimston Rd.

Turn left into Flora Grove.

At fork, bear right to continue in Flora Grove.

Down hill and turn left into Vanda Crescent.

Just before school, take footpath on right (walk).

At end rejoin Alban Way - turning left to cross bridge.

Alban Way closure 11 Feb 08

Diversion for WESTBOUND users - ON-ROAD Option

(Traffic conditions could be heavy in some roads at some times, especially around City Station.)

After bridge over Camp Rd. take footpath on right, beyond school (walk).

At end, turn left (Vanda Crescent).

At end turn right (Flora Grove).

Bear left at junction & follow to tee junction,

where turn right (Grimston Rd.)

At junction with Stanhope Rd, go forward & again forward through traffic lights.

After railway bridge, but before traffic lights, turn left (Ridgmont Rd.)

Forward for 200 metres then right through line of bollards (still Ridgmont Rd)

At junction with Grosvenor Rd, turn left into Grosvenor Rd.

At roundabout (London Rd junction) go forward into Orient Close.

(Option use nearby pelican crossing).

Down incline then turn right to rejoin Alban Way.

Alban Way closure 11 Feb 08

Diversion for EASTBOUND users - OFF-ROAD/QUIET ROAD Option

(Traffic conditions should be very quiet on this route, suitable for children.)

Halfway along Orient Close, instead of going straight ahead, turn left - up slope (also Orient Close), using cycle path.

At junction with London Rd, use pelican crossing to cross London Rd (walk).

Go right & cross Grosvenor Rd, to join cycle path alongside London Rd.

Pass under railway bridge & cross two side roads.

At Cunningham Hill Rd, turn left.

This is a quiet cul-de-sac, so ride on road.

As Cunningham Hill Rd bears right, go left into Barncroft Way.

After 50 metres go through gap with three bollards on right.

Using footway (walk) bear left & go through four bollards.

Still keeping left follow footway and continue alongside Parkview Close.

Continue on footpath alongside playing field, through barriers & down hill.

At Dellfield turn right then take path on left just before junction with Camp Rd.

Up slope to rejoin Alban Way, turn right to cross bridge.

Alban Way closure 11 Feb 08

Diversion for WESTBOUND users - OFF-ROAD/QUIET ROAD Option

(Traffic conditions should be very quiet on this route, suitable for children.)

After bridge over Camp Rd. turn left, down slope to Dellfield.

Turn right then after Hawkshill take footpath on left, up hill (walk).

Through barriers and alongside playing field, continue on footway alongside Cell Barnes Lane.

Bear right between four bollards, then through gap with three bollards.

To join Barncroft Way, turning left.

After 50 metres go right into Cunningham Hill Rd.

This is a quiet cul-de-sac, so ride on road.

Just before end (junction with London Rd) go right on shared cycle path.

Cross two side roads & go under railway, continue to Grosvenor Rd.

Cross Grosvenor Rd & take pelican crossing over London Rd (walk).

Join cycle path in Orient Close, go down slope to tee junction.

Turn right to rejoin Alban Way.

Post updated 4th March with reopening info.

Post updated 31 Jan due to fault in Blogger, which resulted in route sheet headings being rendered with font-size of zero!

Post updated 8 Feb due to the closure start date being brought forward (or incorrectly advised) - It is now Feb 11th, not 12th. Plus other detail changes.

Herts Highways lose 30% of cycling staff

2008-01-25T11:17:00.000Z

Helen McCormick has moved to another role within the organisation, so Dave Burt's cycling team is reduced to 2 - himself and George Eivers. So Herts Highways are reducing capacity to provide cycle schemes - maybe our biggest campaign issue is HH staffing levels!

Bike security

2008-01-16T12:31:00.001Z

Stolen Bike, originally uploaded by Greg Jagiello.

The Home Office has some useful tips on bike security on their website, as well as a useful leaflet.

First Capital Connect and the British Transport Police are giving out free cycle alarms at St Albans City Station on Wedndesday 23 and Thurday 29 January. We'd be interested in hearing about the experience of anyone who'se got one, please leave a comment.

The best bet is to use at least one good lock to secure your bike to something fixed, somewhere in plain view..

London wins bike funding, does Herts get an equal bite of the cake?

2007-11-19T12:57:00.001Z

Big Ben x Bike, originally uploaded by Lynt.

Bike Radar carries a story about plans to spend almost £20 million on bike intrastructure, promotion and training in the next financial year as part of a wider £75 million spend.

Wikipedia has London's population as 7.5million, so by my reckoning that's £2.85 per capita.

St Albans population is around 130,000- does anyone know what the cycling budget is?

St Pancras Eurostar cycle protest

2007-11-15T17:53:00.000Z

From 'Orbiter' a welcome & frequent visitor to our blog (sent 14 November 2007 17:27)

I went to see the first Eurostars leave & arrive this morning. An
impressive station and celebration but.....

Cyclists are complaining of being forgotten [HERE] and [HERE]

Children's Cycles - available, Free

2007-11-14T19:04:00.000Z

A STACC member has available...

Two children's bicycles - free to anyone who will collect - from Clarence Park area, St Albans

One boy's - in need of work to stop handlebars swivelling

One girl's

Both have 24" wheels, both are suitable for around 9 year olds and both are in need of overhaul.

If you are interested, please phone or text STACC on 07960 822867.
Or email mabonney AT dsl D0T pipex D0T com

Cyclists Wanted, 10 Nov, to Welcome Navy Cyclists - Update

2007-11-08T13:31:00.000Z

Don't forget to turn out give a worthy welcome to the 10 members of the ship's company of HMS St Albans on Saturday, after their fund-raising cycle ride from Glasgow.
As the Navy press release shows - they are expecting us.

Join the STACC group riding with them from Woolams Sports Ground (that’s on the Harpenden Road, on the north edge of the City, on the right beyond the 30mph sign).

Aim to be there ready for a 2:30 departure (was formerly given as 2pm).

We ride to the City Centre where the group will be received by the Mayor.

HMNBC 588/07 Tuesday 23 October 2007

ST ALBANS’ OWN ROYAL NAVY WARSHIP CYCLES INTO THE CITY

Ten crew members from Royal Navy frigate HMS St Albans are embarking on a gruelling 430 mile cycle ride from Rosyth to St Albans in aid of the Mayor’s Fund for the Future and The Royal British Legion. The ship was granted the freedom of the city in July 2004.

HMS St Albans is currently half way through a 12 month refit in Rosyth, on the east coast of Scotland, during which time her capabilities are being significantly improved, with enhanced satellite communications, upgraded sensors and new weapon systems.

Despite this busy period the Ship’s Company have found time to conduct this marathon jouney which will see a team of cyclists riding leaving Rosyth on Monday 5 November with their route taking them through Berwick-upon-Tweed, Gateshead, Knaresborough, Mansfield and Northampton.

They’ll arrive at Woollam’s Playing Fields on Harpenden Road at around 2.00 pm on Saturday 10 November. There they will be joined by members of the Cycle Campaign before continuing their journey into the town centre. They will be met by the Mayor Cllr Kate Morris at 3.00 pm outside the District Council offices. On Sunday 11 November they will be taking part in the city’s Remembrance Day service, where the youngest member, Logistician Matthew Burrows, will lay a wreath.

Of the ten cyclists, five will be riding at any one time, with the rest providing support, collecting money en route and navigating. They are hoping to raise over £1000 for the two charities, which will provide support to the Royal British Legion and locally to St Albans through the Mayor’s Fund for the Future which gives grants to 18 local St Albans groups.

The organiser of the event, Warrant Officer Marty Wallace, said “I think this is an excellent opportunity to raise some money for charity whilst encouraging health and fitness. It will be hard work but good fun for all those taking part.”

HMS St Albans’ Senior Naval Officer, Lieutenant Commander Ludo McCloskey commented “This is the second time we have undertaken this venture, the first was whilst the ship was in build six years ago when a team cycled from Glasgow to St Albans. I have no doubt that the cyclists will cope with the mileage and arrive with a smile on their faces, having raised money for two very worthwhile charities. I am also sure that this event will help to cement the strong relationship that we have with our home town.”

HMS St Albans is the newest of the Royal Navy’s Duke Class Frigates and was delivered to the Royal Navy in November 2001. When she rejoins the Fleet in August 2008, the 133 metre-long ship, which displaces 4,500 tonnes, will have a crew of 21 officers, 50 senior ratings and 123 junior ratings.

The ship is armed with eight Harpoon Missiles, a vertical launch Sea Wolf anti-missile system, a 114mm gun, close range guns, torpedoes, the Sea Skua anti-ship missile system, depth charges and a MK 8 Lynx Helicopter.

ENDS

Sent by Gillian Lang, SO2 Regional Media and Communications – Royal Navy

St Albans residents read more about cycling than cars..

2007-11-06T12:54:00.000Z

A SURVEY into the reading habits of more than two million magazine subscribers has revealed a passion for pedal power in St Albans. The research, carried out by Periodical Publishers Association, showed people in the area are more than twice as likely to have a subscription to a cycling magazine than a car or motor magazine.

Verulamium Park - Consultation Continues

2007-11-05T00:50:00.000Z

The exhibition of the proposals for the lottery bid & the consultation process continue through the week (from 5th November) in the Verulamium Museum foyer - but will not be manned.
You will still be able to leave more comments on Post-It notes - you are not limited to one note.

Notes will be collected once per day.
Opening times will be those of the museum
Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm
Sunday 2.00pm - 5.30pm
Visit as many times as you like - with all those afterthoughts.

The exhibition also appears on-line from Monday 5th Nov &
continues for at least a week. It is [HERE] .

There is also be a Discussion Forum where you can leave more comments, it is located [HERE] .

New Readers catch-up: See earlier post [HERE]

Council want to start a cycle campaign!

2007-11-02T11:29:00.000Z

Well maybe!
The consultation document on reducing our collective carbon emmissions states:

Cycling campaign
To develop a campaign to encourage cycling through
increased awareness and improved measures:
- Planning and implementing new cycle routes
- Providing additional cycle parking
- Improving integration with public transport
- Encouraging company cycle plans

See the whole document at:
http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/living/health/environment/carbon_consultation.pdf

Verulamium Park - View Plan - On-line or on 3rd November

2007-10-30T13:04:00.000Z

Information on the master plan for a lottery bid for Ver Park is currently available on line
[HERE]

It will also be available from 12noon until 7.30pm on Saturday, 3 November in the foyer of Verulamium Museum.
I would encourage all those who wish to see cycling in the park to make sure their views are heard.

STACC member Gwen says...
I have just read the press release on the SADC website,'Ver Park Plan goes
live'. I am concerned not to find a single reference to cycling, in
amongst the herons and chalk stream, is it being hidden in the proposed
path round the edge of the park? Another reason for visiting the
exhibition on Sat.

Amended 8 Nov
See later Post [HERE]

St Albans Review - On-Line Comments - Looks Useful

2007-10-24T23:02:00.001+01:00

If you read the local free paper St Albans Review, as well as the letters page you will have seen the page and a half of comments which readers have made on line.

It occurs to me that this is a handy way to plug STACC and the cycling message, and has more chance of being printed than a letter.

The more comments on a subject, the higher ranking it seems to get.

Just go to HERE and get typing, anytime you see a relevant article, but it appears that you can only add on-line comment to the 'Most Read' articles listed. (Add a comment to this post if you find out how to comment on any article or reader's letter, not listed as 'Most Read'.)

ALSO: added 26 Oct
The Review's website is not a static version of the printed paper, it is constantly changing with new stories added - and further chances for comment. So you need to keep a regular eye on things.

PS: added 25 Oct
There's currently an article running on line, with opportunity to comment....
Bright ideas for Verulamium Park [HERE]
It's about young people's ideas for the park (but they forgot to say cycling).
Moreover the article says the park is a "haven for ..... cyclists ...." - bit of scope for comment?

Updated 10 April 2008 adding text in green italics

French Connection - Marseille Bike Hire

2007-10-24T12:48:00.000+01:00

Marseille's new cycle hire scheme was launched recently.

Jack Pia (SADC Councillor for St Peter's Ward & former STACC member) - pictured - happened to be there near the launch date & used the system often during his visit and is full of praise for it.

Jack has been a proponent of 'appropriate' urban transport - walk-cycle-bus for the last half century.
However, before you ask, there are no prospects of such a scheme in St Albans, the city isn't big enough to support one.

The scheme is identical to the one in Lyons (first one in France) - Blogged here and the one in Paris - see useful tips in English here

The scheme name is Vélib’ in both Paris & Marseille and Vélo'v in Lyons (accents & apostrohes - essential for us pedants) .

Whilst Paris & Lyons systems operate 24/7 there's some indication that Marseille does not operate at night yet here

Hmmm... I hope that Jack remembered to ride on the right.

UPDATED 26 Oct
Comment on-line about this at St Albans Review's website [HERE]

Cyclists Wanted, 10 Nov, to Welcome group cycling from Glasgow

2007-10-23T17:59:00.000+01:00

Message from Liz

The Mayor, Cllr Kate Morris, has asked for some STACC members to escort some members of the crew of HMS St Albans who will have cycled from Glasgow and be arriving in St Albans on Saturday, November 10th. The idea would be to await their arrival at approx 2pm. at the entrance to Woollams (sports ground), just outside the St Albans boundary on the Harpenden Rd. We then cycle with them to the Town Centre where they will be greeted. They are raising money for charity while their ship is in dock in Glasgow.
As you probably know, the crew have the Freedom of the City of St Albans and they will be staying the week-end and attending the Remembrance Day parade on the Sunday.
Please let me know if you would be able to support this good idea and see how many cyclists we can muster!

Amended 8 Nov
See later post [HERE]

Very good news from Sustrans Connect2 (£50 Million Lottery Bid)

2007-10-23T17:13:00.000+01:00

From Jamie Edwards of Sustrans Connect2 Team, via Andy Knight, Area Manager, Sustrans - Luton, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

We are delighted to tell you that the Sustrans' Connect2 project is through
to the final shortlist of the Big Lottery Fund's: The People's £50 million
contest (formerly known as Living Landmarks). The other 3 projects in the
running are: 'The Black Country as an Urban Park', 'The Edge at Eden' and
'Sherwood: The Living Legend'.

As of today, BIG have launched their own promotional campaign and website.
The URL for the site is:
http://www.thepeoples50million.org.uk/

With a Connect2 specific page at:
http://www.thepeoples50million.org.uk/projects/connect2

Key information is that online voting will open at 9am on Monday 26 November
2007. We will confirm any other information available as soon as BIG allow.

Sustrans' Connect2 needs you. This UK-wide project aims to improve local
travel for everyday journeys in 79 communities and is competing for a grant
of 50 million pounds in the Big Lottery Fund's Living Landmarks: The
People's Millions competition. The winner will be decided by a TV vote in
December 2007. Visit www.sustransconnect2.org.uk and leave us your details
so we can update you about our progress. Text CONNECT2 to 80010 to be told
how and when to vote.

Lighting up time

2007-10-22T12:33:00.001+01:00

light bright bike, originally uploaded by lynnieb.

British Summer Time comes to an end next Saturday, bringing a temporary respite to the darkening mornings but an abrupt change to the evening light. If you commute by bike, chances are you'll need lights next week if you're not already using them.

Highway code Rule 60:
At night your cycle MUST have white front and red rear lights lit. It MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen. Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp

STACC's Top tips for safe cycling in the dark:

Use good lights- bike lighting has come a long way since the bad old days of 'Never Ready' lamps which always seemed to break. As a minimum effective LED lights are small enough to take off the bike when parking and keep in a pocket. Although legal, flashing lights probably shouldn't be used as your only light source, especially on the front. Don't buy the cheapest lights you can find- the cheap, green tinged flashing LEDs are particlarly awful.

Keep a spare set of batteries- batteries always run down at the most inconvenient moment! Keep a spare set of batteries, preferably with you on the bike but at least at home and work.

Wear something reflective- Reflective kit like Sam Browne belt, hi vis jacket, reflective ankle/wrist bands, helmet halo is fairly cheap and very effective. Reflectors on moving bike parts like wheels and pedals are very effective and a small length of reflective tape on your cranks is surprisingly visible in a car's headlights.

Ride where you can be seen. Common sense...position yourself in the road where you can be seen- this means not hugging the gutter and keeping about 3 feet from the kerb.

If you use rechargable lights, carry a backup. Those fancy retina-searing offroad lights are great for winter commuting, but their light will fade very quickly once the batteries run low. It's best to have a small LED as backup.

A lack of lights is no excuse for riding on the pavement- and actually puts you in even more danger since an unlit cyclist joining or crossing the road where a driver isn't expecting to see them is even less visible at night than during the day.