This paper considers the role that motorcycles (or Powered Two Wheelers (PTW)) can play in Local Transport Plans (LTP). The background to a special project to draw the attention of transport planners to the PTW option is outlined and the results of this, with possible future trends, discussed. Since August 1999, the UK Government has required UK local authorities (LA - also known as Councils) to prepare local transport plans that embody the philosophy of integrated transport planning. The process that led to this provided an opportunity for a new approach to motorcycling in transport planning. In terms of motorcycle policy development, the Motorcycle Industry has seen a motorcycle-inclusive local policy environment as a long standing objective. It is considered that measures which lead to priority access and enhanced facilities can help to improve safety, enhance ease of use and raise general awareness of motorcycling among other road users as an alternative mode of transport. The MCI subsequently embarked on a series of activities which were designed to draw attention at local authority level to the benefits offered by commuter PTW use and the potential role that can be played by this mode in local transport planning. The aim of the activities being to encourage the adoption of LTP policies supportive of measures to assist use and enhance the safety of PTW users.
Abstract