What does a European cycling strategy mean for the cycling industry? ECF and CIC are excited to announce an important step forward in EU support for cycling. The Roadmap for Cycling at EU level is taking shape and we are grateful for the strong support from the cycling industry in achieving this milestone in cycling advocacy. On 14th July 2015 the members of the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism committee recommended to include an EU Roadmap for Cycling in the European Commission’s Work Programme for 2016. The plenary is expected to confirm the committee vote in its September session. This is a significant step forward in ECF’s work to place cycling at the highest level in EU policy.

Why a European strategy for cycling? The Roadmap shall assimilate and align all current EU policies and allow for the formation of further measures. It also serves to bring cycling higher on the political agenda and activate all relevant stakeholders at the European and national levels. ECF believes that such a roadmap is an important instrument in removing barriers for the development of cycling in EU policies, funding for infrastructure as well as for research & development projects. Furthermore, the Roadmap will highlight the importance of the expanding cycling industry in terms of job creation and economic growth. Growing numbers in bike sales and the boom of e-bikes are just examples of a flourishing sector. ECF’s advocacy works serves a common interest which is to unlock funds for cycling projects and infrastructure and ultimately the common goal of bringing more people to use bicycles brought ECF and the cycling industry together.

Steps forward: Under the current Luxembourg Presidency of the Council of Ministers, ECF will join an informal meeting of EU transport ministers on October 7th.  The Cycling Industry Club and Conebi will be working together to make sure that the Luxembourg Presidency and all EU transport ministers hear about the benefits of cycling. If you want to learn more information on how the industry can support advocacy and what the benefits are of this collaboration, don’t miss the CIC Advocacy Summit during Eurobike in Germany (more information coming soon) or contact ECF Director of Development, Kevin Mayne (k.mayne@ecf.com).