A NAKED bike ride in Southampton has reignited a debate around the safety of cyclists who use cycle lanes in the city.
Dozens of cyclists will strip off today and take to the streets for the city’s yearly naked bike ride while campaigning for better safety.
Barry Freeman, who will be leading the ride, said: “We ride naked or 'as bare as you dare' to demonstrate the vulnerability of cyclists alongside motor vehicles.
“Our skin and bones are no protection against solid and powerful motor vehicles and the emissions from petrol and diesel exhausts poison the air we all breathe.
“Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) exhaust emissions damage the lungs of children, particularly those in their pushchairs and prams on pavements alongside slow moving traffic.
“We protest for better air quality and for safer conditions and better routes for cyclists.
“Southampton’s cycle lanes are a step in the right direction but riddled with dangers. Clearly not designed by a cyclist.
“In 2022, 85 cyclists were killed on UK roads, 5,602 cyclist were seriously injured. Southampton is part of those unacceptable statistics.”
The council is currently embroiled in a serious cost-cutting exercise in a bid to avoid a section 114 notice due to a precarious financial situation.
However, Green councillor Katherine Barbour said it is still important to continue "the transformation of the way we move around".
She said: “The naked cycle ride is a great way to highlight the joy of cycling while at the same time ensuring our roads are as safe as possible.
“I believe much of the funding for cycle lanes has come from the current national Conservative Government which is a strong advocate of active travel.
“This will mean a step change in how we get around cities. While acknowledging the current financial crisis in the city, we have to continue with the transformation of the ways we move around.
“This will encourage more people to cycle, scoot and walk.”
Cllr Simon Letts, the cabinet member for finance who is leading the council’s efforts in dealing with the financial difficulties, said: “Cycling is good for your health and it’s good for the environment.
“The biggest barrier to getting more people on their bikes is not feeling safe.
“That is why when the opportunity arose this council was first in line for government funding to improve our cycle network.
“Making the roads safer for all road users.
“I urge cyclists to use the network where it exists and leave the busy roads to the motorist.”
The naked bike ride will begin at 6pm.
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