TfL opens London cycle use data to app designers in journey planning drive

Transport for London has opened up up a greater chunk of its data to app developers in a drive to make it easier for Londoners to navigate by bike.

Challenging developers to improve their navigation services for cyclists, the information is now available here and combines previously available data, including cycle parking locations and the availability of hire bikes from 780 docking stations. New Superhighways and Quietways will be added as they open, something which former Cycling Commissioner Andrew Gilligan has this week blogged on, stating progress is moving far too slowly.

Will Norman, London’s current Walking and Cycling
Commissioner, said of the data release: “Millions of Londoners use apps to navigate around our city every day, and by ensuring this cycling data is available to developers, we can make a big difference to the way journeys are planned. By knowing where the infrastructure is and when new parts are opened, cyclists can pick the best route for them, rather than simply following the way they would go by car or bus. It’s yet another way we are working to make cycling even easier for all Londoners.”

At the base of today’s press announcement TfL reiterates that London’s Healthy Streets Portfolio ambition, on which £2.1 billion is to be spent, includes doubling the annual average spend on cycling for transport. Campaigners, including Gilligan, argue that while additional funding is welcomed, on many fronts the delays and dilution of plans is costing Londoner’s health and safety.