Philip Ingham, How can you really make the "pick up the bike" system work in London? At a moment the only people who pick up the bikes in the capital are the thiefs, who have stolen 4 of my bikes so far. Do you think this system could be expensive to introduce in London?
Asked by PikkuMemy on Oct 30 2007 7:51:58 PM and supported by 24 members
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It can work, but only if it's properly planned and has commitment and backing of the relevant authorities. Dumping a lot of bikes on the streets wouldn't work - it's been tried elsewhere - but modern pick-up schemes are viable where they are done properly.
Compared to many of the alternatives - upgrading public transport, new roads etc - it would be very inexpensive. That, along with the health benefits and the low impact cycling has on the environment (both in terms of pollution and in terms of things like noise and danger to pedestrians) make it very cost effective.