I have blogged about this extremely worthwhile campaign before. But with just a couple of days to go before it actually happens on April 28, here’s a another reminder. Pedal On Parliament is calling for cyclists of all varieties, and people who would like to cycle but don’t, to join a mass bike ride to the Scottish Parliament. The aim is to tell our politicians that cycling matters, to show our need for safer cycling and to call for cities fit for people.

Round-the-world record-breaking Scottish cyclist and adventurer Mark Beaumont will be there to offer his support. Other big names in support of the campaign are Sir Chris Hoy and Graeme Obree.

Dave Brennan, one of the Pedal for Parliament organisers, says: “We are delighted to have the support of three big Scottish names. There has also been two supportive motions in parliament already, however, as yet there are no concrete proposals, so we need as  strong a show of force  – although it will be a very gentle force as there will be kids there  – too as possible.

“If you can make it, brilliant. You don’t need a bike, just walk along with us! If you can’t make it, please sign the petition.

“We really do have an opportunity to make Scotland a cycle friendly nation.”

What do Pedal on Parliament want?

The campaign group has created an eight point manifesto to help Scotland’s government reach its target of 10% of journeys by bike by 2020, a target which is now also embedded in its low carbon and obesity strategies.

It’s claimed that the government’s present Cycling Action Plan [CAPS] is far too limited to achieve the target, while the proportion of the transport budget allocated to cycling remains wholly inadequate at under 1%.

The PoP manifesto covers:

1. Proper funding for cycling.
2. Design cycling into Scotland’s roads.
3. Slower speeds where people live, work and play
4. Integrate cycling into local transport strategies
5. Improved road traffic law and enforcement
6. Reduce the risk of HGVs to cyclists and pedestrians
7. A strategic and joined-up programme of road user training
8. Improved statistics supporting decision-making and policy.