Cycling Surges in Scotland: Infrastructure Drives Record Ridership

The study, conducted over two days in September, observed traffic on Victoria Road in Glasgow's Southside. It found that cyclists constituted over 16 percent of all journeys, a figure comparable to those seen in cycling-friendly nations like the Netherlands and Denmark. This surge is largely credited to the South City Way cycle lane, a 2.5km fully protected route connecting Glasgow's Southside to its city center. During the busiest times of the day, bicycle traffic surpassed car traffic on this route. Similar positive trends were recorded in other Scottish cities, including Edinburgh and Stirling, where new and improved cycling paths have led to record-breaking ridership. For instance, the Leith Walk cycle lane in Edinburgh saw a 9.7 percent modal share for cyclists, and a 200 percent increase in cycling was noted at the junction of Gilmerton Road and Pillars Path between 2021 and 2025.

These findings underscore the critical role of safe, segregated cycling infrastructure in encouraging more people to choose cycling for their daily commutes. Residents like Katy Hastie attest to the personal benefits, citing increased safety, fitness, and efficiency. The stark contrast in cycling numbers between areas with and without dedicated lanes, such as Victoria Road versus Saracen Street in Glasgow, further reinforces this point. The support from local authorities, including Edinburgh City Council's transport convenor Stephen Jenkinson and Glasgow's Angus Millar, demonstrates a commitment to sustainable urban mobility and creating more livable, active communities.

The clear correlation between investment in protected cycling infrastructure and a significant increase in cycling participation offers an inspiring blueprint for urban development globally. By prioritizing safe and accessible routes, cities can foster healthier populations, reduce traffic congestion, and contribute to a more sustainable future. This movement towards active travel not only benefits individuals through improved well-being but also strengthens community bonds and promotes environmental stewardship.