Improving cycling mobility in the South

On the 2nd of October, the Minett UNESCO Biosphere brought together representatives of the technical, transport and mobility services of the eleven member communes of the PRO-SUD syndicate. During this meeting, a review of the work carried out in recent months was presented.

© Minett UNESCO Biosphere

Towards more active transport and a better network

In recent years, the issue of mobility in the activity zones of the Southern Region has been constantly evolving. A study carried out in 2017 revealed that 88% of commutes are made by car, while only 1% are made by bicycle. This reality has prompted the authorities to take a closer look at the existing cycling infrastructure and consider improvements.

Inadequate infrastructure, but potential for change

In 2018-19, a study by the consultancy firm TRIDEE highlighted several shortcomings in the cycling network in the southern region:

• Cycling paths poorly adapted to beginners

• Discontinuous safe zones interspersed with undeveloped and potentially dangerous sections

• Lack of connectivity between different communities

• A dense road network that hinders the development of coherent cycle routes

Following this work, a field survey carried out in 2023 revealed significant potential: citizens say they are willing to cycle to work, provided there is adequate and safe infrastructure.

Citizens’ workshops to identify the “missing links”

In the spring of 2024, the Minett UNESCO Biosphere and the non-profit organisation Pro-Velo organised citizens’ workshops in Esch, Dudelange and Differdange to identify the “missing links” in the cycling network. At the same time, an in-depth survey was carried out to understand the motivations and barriers to cycling.

The results show that cycling with the family, health benefits and practicality are motivating factors. However, concerns about road safety, conflicts with car drivers and the lack of appropriate infrastructure remain major barriers to the wider uptake of cycling.

This participatory approach has enabled a precise map of priority improvements to be drawn up. The data collected will serve as a basis for interested municipalities to develop a concrete action plan aimed at creating a safe and smooth cycling environment in the southern region of Luxembourg.

Proposals and next steps

Pro-Velo presented a map of the “missing links” in the Southern Region, prioritising certain cycling facilities to complete the cycle network. In addition, a representative of the Department of Spatial Planning presented potential state aid that could be offered to municipalities for the construction of new cycling infrastructure.

The next steps could include the development of a regional grant application and a presentation to local elected officials.
This initiative promises to significantly improve the connectivity and safety of the cycling network, thus contributing to more sustainable and accessible mobility in our Biosphere Reserve.