Several ambitious plans are in place to make London into a more cycle-friendly city as cycling is now seen as an established form of mass transport. Cycling has been given a huge push in the capital thanks to work from the Government and Transport for London over the last few years. The reasons for it are obvious; it will help to reduce congestion on roads, ease the need for parking spaces and dramatically reduce the amount of air pollution. Every architect in London is sure to be intrigued by these new developments.

One impressive concept by renowned architect Norman Foster was released last year. The project was titled SkyCycle and envisaged a network of secure cycling lanes being erected above the railway lines scattered across London. This series of elevated pathways would provide unparalleled access and dramatically reduce the commuting times of cyclists. It would also improve safety and further reduce the pressure on many roads. The concept art for the project is stunning and it would go a long way to transforming the capital into a cycling paradise.

Foster + Partners is also involved in a new cutting edge residential development that makes even more provisions for cyclists. The development at 250 City Road will see 930 apartments built in the most bicycle friendly high rise property in London. Original plans would have seen 1,223 cycle parking spaces created in the property but the actual number will be 1,483 after Islington Council pushed for even more. The building will have a lift from the basement storage area large enough for bicycles and a workshop will also be provided so residents have somewhere to work on their bikes comfortably.

London is building a great reputation as a cycling city and countless architects are getting on board and factoring this into their projects. With many planned high rise properties there are more cycle spaces than parking spaces to encourage people to choose bicycles rather than cars. If every architect in London contributes and makes allowances with their projects the dream of a cycle utopia in the UK’s largest city could be realised in the coming years.