This paper begins by explaining why stimulating bicycle usage in the Dutch city of Arnhem is no simple matter. In order to really stimulate bicycle usage, and improve its competitive position especially in relation to the car, a cohesive network of High Quality Bicycling Routes should be offered in Arnhem, complying with strict quality demands. The introduction of the high quality cycling route as a planning concept is important in the sense that it is a framework to which all other measures to stimulate bicycle usage can be attached. The so-called 'desired cycling structure' should be based on the characteristic urban development structure of Arnhem. This concept means in principle that cycling must be possible in all the present streets, roads and squares. 'Desired cycling structure' provides prior conditions for the new urban development structure which is to be realized. The High Quality Bicycling Route network at city level is selected from the entire 'desired bicycling structure'. The High Quality Bicycling Routes should be given extra quality, while the 'normal amount of attention' should be paid to the 'complementary bicycling network'.
Abstract