Olympian accuses the Government of failing cyclists

The former Olympic racing cycling champion, Chris Boardman, has slammed the government for their failure to bring about a promised ‘cycling revolution’.

The Prime Minister made the bold pledge some 18 months ago, and now Boardman has hit out at the Transport Secretary, Patrick McLaughlin, labelling him an ‘embarrassment.’

The former world and Olympic champion was highly critical of the amount that has been spent on cycling compared to other European countries. His ire was also directed at a lack of urgency in improving the cycling infrastructure and road conditions for bike users.

Mr Boardman said; “After the triumphs of London 2012, the Prime Minister promised a ‘cycling revolution’ and, even though today’s announcement has been almost two years in the making, we are still waiting for his government to produce a clear strategy on cycling,”

“The Department for Transport’s own figures show that they’ve spent a pitiful £2.20 per head per year on cycling over the last five years – this is 10 times less than is being spent in popular cycling countries abroad.”

He added: “The next government now has a legal obligation to produce an investment strategy for cycling.”

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