Cyclists highlight lockdown benefits in Sheffield

Sheffield's streets and roads have been much quieter since the government imposed a lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The restrictions - which only allow people to go outside for essential work, to pick up necessities or to exercise once a day - has encouraged many to make the most of their limited time outside by cycling or walking.

As a result of less car journeys and more people taking up exercise, some activists have seen it as an opportunity to show people what life could be like with less traffic.

In a virtual meeting where about 50 cyclists were discussing active travel in the region, some highlighted the positives of the lockdown and agreed to use those to encourage people to continue with beneficial habits learned during the crisis.

Professor Steven Haake, founding director of the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University, said: "In terms of messaging and changing the world, this next 12 months will be quite crucial.

"While we are in lockdown, people are experiencing a new world of quiet neighbourhoods, low traffic, bird song and clear skies.

“The worst thing would be if people jumped back in the car and accepted the status quo.

“If a large proportion of the population said it was not good enough, then we may get more traction with the politicians, both local and national.”

Many agreed, saying they enjoyed the city environment more now than usual.

Coun Ruth Mersereau, representative for City ward, said: “I live in S12, only a mile from beautiful countryside, but this week is the first time I’ve been able to access this countryside safely either on food or by bicycle.”

Pete Zanzottera, meeting chairman and a sustainable transport consultant, said: “There is absolutely an important thing about locking in the benefits right now and getting people to remember what it has been like over the past couple of weeks and hopefully the next few weeks.”

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