This report presents, where data permit, figures from the 1981 Greater London Transportation Survey in a form equivalent to that used in a Department of Transport report on cycling using 1978-79 National Travel Survey data. Comparisons are given in two sections. Firstly, household cycle ownership is described in terms of a number of demographic and socioeconomic variables. Secondly, the use of bicycles is outlined in terms of day of week and time of year, location, journey purpose, income and socioeconomic group. In each case figures from the Greater London Transportation Survey are presented alongside equivalent national travel survey tabulations. Results from the Greater London Transportation Survey follow similar patterns to those in the national travel survey. Ownership is lowest in inner London and increases with greater distance from centre. As household size increases so does cycle ownership, in particular with larger numbers of children. There is little variation in ownership across socioeconomic groups, but nevertheless income and car ownership are seen to be strongly associated with cycle ownership. Cycling activity increases with distance from centre and with number of bicycles owned. Income and cycle stage rates are more closely associated in inner London than elsewhere in London where there is no clear relationship. The economically active and lower socioeconomic groups cycle most although managerial and professional workers in the inner greater London transportation survey zone also cycle relatively frequently. Work, shopping and social purposes are the dominant purposes for which bicycle stages are made. Education journeys make a significant contribution to cycle use among residents of the Greater London Transportation Survey area outside inner London.
Abstract