Transport planner Bevan Woodward welcomes the opportunity to make a submission to the Coroner’s enquiry on the spate of cyclists’ deaths.

Mr Woodward says: “Cycling is a brilliant activity that benefits everybody, but unfortunately NZ is dragging the chain on making much needed safety improvements. I hope that the Coroners enquiry will finally spur our politicians and road builders into action.”

Mr Woodward first warned Auckland City Council in 2006 of the danger for cyclists at the location on Tamaki Drive where English nurse Jane Bishop was subsequently killed cycling in November 2010. 

Mr Woodward has studied international best practice to see how other nations have improved cycle safety. 

“Whilst there is no silver bullet for improving cycle safety, there are many things we can do, that when taken together, are likely to deliver significant safety improvements.”

Mr Woodward has identified six key areas that should be focused on in New Zealand:

1. Reduce the speed of traffic on key cycling routes
2. Protect cyclists through improved provision
3. Increase the funding for cycle safety projects
4. Improve road design to ensure safety for all road users
5. Enforce and toughen the laws for road users
6. Improve driving behaviour