James Whitman, PRO of the Bicycling Advocacy Group, has written a list of tips for cyclists' safety in the Times of Malta. You can read the list here.
Sliema Local Council is currently working on more bicycle-friendly infrastructure.
Showing posts with label Bicycle Advocacy Group. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bicycle Advocacy Group. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Tips for cyclists' safety
James Whitman, PRO of the Bicycling Advocacy Group, has written a list of tips for cyclists' safety in the Times of Malta. You can read the list here.
Sliema Local Council is currently working on more bicycle-friendly infrastructure.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Townsquare 38 Storey Tower Block proposal: Bicycling Advocacy Group submits objection to MEPA
Re: PA/01191/05
To: objakn@mepa.org.mt
Dear Sir or Madam;
We the Bicycling Advocacy Group Malta, registered NGO, would like to raise our objections to the development of a 38 story tower block in Sliema on the following grounds.
1. There appears to be no Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan as per the EU White Paper recommendations on urban transport for this development or the surrounding traffic system that it will impact. This system and its effects can be as far reaching as St Julians and Gzira, due to the importance of the Qui Si Sana peninsula.
2. Given that the development will be pedestrianized external parking to the development itself is necessary as the internal parking incurs a significant traffic load. In addition the development needs to be mindful of EU 2020 and 2050 targets of a 50% and 100% reduction respectively in traffic in city cores.
3. The increased traffic (which would be significant) both private and public transport will increase the traffic density for cyclists on Tower Road. This has been reported (Sliema Sharrows Report) as being unsuitable for passing bicycles with sufficient safe clearance in 96% of it's length. There would need to be a segregeted cycle lane involving the removal of parking along Tower is traffic increased substantially in the lines that the development proposes.
4. It is not clear how the development will manage, and importantly, protect the only cyclable legal route out of the peninsula via Triq St Antnin and the streets leading to it, ie Hallet itself. This would also need to be given cyclist priority with the removal of parking and a full cycle lane provisioned for with connecting feeder lanes. Sliema's Tower Road is a consistently and highly patronized cycle route (see National Bike Count reports 2012 & 2014) that must be taken into consideration.
Kind regards,
Jim Wightman
PRO BAG Malta
To: objakn@mepa.org.mt
Dear Sir or Madam;
We the Bicycling Advocacy Group Malta, registered NGO, would like to raise our objections to the development of a 38 story tower block in Sliema on the following grounds.
1. There appears to be no Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan as per the EU White Paper recommendations on urban transport for this development or the surrounding traffic system that it will impact. This system and its effects can be as far reaching as St Julians and Gzira, due to the importance of the Qui Si Sana peninsula.
2. Given that the development will be pedestrianized external parking to the development itself is necessary as the internal parking incurs a significant traffic load. In addition the development needs to be mindful of EU 2020 and 2050 targets of a 50% and 100% reduction respectively in traffic in city cores.
3. The increased traffic (which would be significant) both private and public transport will increase the traffic density for cyclists on Tower Road. This has been reported (Sliema Sharrows Report) as being unsuitable for passing bicycles with sufficient safe clearance in 96% of it's length. There would need to be a segregeted cycle lane involving the removal of parking along Tower is traffic increased substantially in the lines that the development proposes.
4. It is not clear how the development will manage, and importantly, protect the only cyclable legal route out of the peninsula via Triq St Antnin and the streets leading to it, ie Hallet itself. This would also need to be given cyclist priority with the removal of parking and a full cycle lane provisioned for with connecting feeder lanes. Sliema's Tower Road is a consistently and highly patronized cycle route (see National Bike Count reports 2012 & 2014) that must be taken into consideration.
Kind regards,
Jim Wightman
PRO BAG Malta
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Bicycling group applauds Sliema local council for road-sharing initiative
The Malta Independent 7/7/15
http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2015-07-07/local-news/Bicycling-group-applauds-Sliema-council-for-road-sharing-initative-6736138460
The Bicycling Advocacy Group has applauded the Sliema Local Council’s efforts to raise awareness about cyclists using Tower Road by placing cyclist awareness signage warning drivers about the presence of cyclists. The signage also makes it clear that cyclists should not use the pavement.
The group sees this as a win-win situation and something that should have occurred at the same time as the signage that legally required cyclists under 12 to dismount on the promenade.
The group went on to challenge other local councils to identify safe corridors and routes through their own localities for cyclists. No local councils in Malta were able to answer the group’s recent survey that asked if it was possible to get from one side of their village safely and efficiently on a bicycle. Sliema Local Council is the first to come up with a plan. It’s simple and effective, and importantly on one of Malta’s key commuting routes, and it is clearly streets ahead of anyone else, the group's spokesman said.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Education, Accessibility, Environment
Michael Briguglio - Sliema Local Council Magazine - December 2013
Education is a priority for Sliema Local Council. By education, we don’t simply mean the awarding of certificates, but we are increasingly referring to various life skills and abilities which can be learned in an inclusive atmosphere, where participants share a sense of belonging to their locality.
During 2013, Sliema Local Council was busy organizing various educational courses. These included computer courses for children and adults, first aid, drama, nutrition, breast cancer awareness, alongside others such as the popular courses within the Lifelong learning scheme, which varied from languages to physical activity, with alot of other courses in between. The Lifelong learning scheme in Sliema is the 2nd most popular in Malta, and courses are fully accessible for persons with physical disability.
Investment in the public library in Blanche Huber Street ensured internet and Wi-fi access in addition to an ever expanding collection of books. Story-telling sessions for children, on Saturdays between 9am and 10am, are now in their second year. The library is also fully accessible for persons with physical disability.
Indeed, the Local Council is giving priority to the need for universal access to public services and infrastructure. Works on pavements, gardens and beaches are examples in this regard. Other plans for the future include having more accessible swings and playing areas.
We are also one of the only five local councils to assign dog-friendly beaches. Part of the beach in Tigne’ near Fortina hotel has been assigned for this purpose, and by next summer we intend to have it better equipped.
Sliema Local Council has also been meeting the Bicycle Advocacy Group to increase awareness on the rights of pedestrians and bicycle users. We are doing our utmost to ensure safety for everyone, yet it is important to point out that we depend on approval from Transport Malta for certain initiatives which we are proposing.
As regards the environment, one main initiative by the local council was our official feedback to MEPA for the Local Plans public consultation process. Amongst others, Sliema Council expressed its opposition to more large-scale development similar to those at Tigne’ Point and Fort Cambridge; that the coast should be free from further development and should be fully accessible to the public; that permitted building heights should not increase, and should actually decrease in certain cases; that the area near the Police Station should be revived so as to function as a community centre with public services; that a park-and-ride scheme to Sliema be introduced at Manoel Island; that Tigne’ seafront should remain residential rather than be commercialized; that development in urban conservation areas should not simply preserve facades, but also important internal characteristics; that more buildings be scheduled; and that MEPA dedicates more funds to compensate for the impact on development in Sliema.
We expect MEPA to give the Local Council proposals the importance they deserve.
Education is a priority for Sliema Local Council. By education, we don’t simply mean the awarding of certificates, but we are increasingly referring to various life skills and abilities which can be learned in an inclusive atmosphere, where participants share a sense of belonging to their locality.
During 2013, Sliema Local Council was busy organizing various educational courses. These included computer courses for children and adults, first aid, drama, nutrition, breast cancer awareness, alongside others such as the popular courses within the Lifelong learning scheme, which varied from languages to physical activity, with alot of other courses in between. The Lifelong learning scheme in Sliema is the 2nd most popular in Malta, and courses are fully accessible for persons with physical disability.
Investment in the public library in Blanche Huber Street ensured internet and Wi-fi access in addition to an ever expanding collection of books. Story-telling sessions for children, on Saturdays between 9am and 10am, are now in their second year. The library is also fully accessible for persons with physical disability.
Indeed, the Local Council is giving priority to the need for universal access to public services and infrastructure. Works on pavements, gardens and beaches are examples in this regard. Other plans for the future include having more accessible swings and playing areas.
We are also one of the only five local councils to assign dog-friendly beaches. Part of the beach in Tigne’ near Fortina hotel has been assigned for this purpose, and by next summer we intend to have it better equipped.
Sliema Local Council has also been meeting the Bicycle Advocacy Group to increase awareness on the rights of pedestrians and bicycle users. We are doing our utmost to ensure safety for everyone, yet it is important to point out that we depend on approval from Transport Malta for certain initiatives which we are proposing.
As regards the environment, one main initiative by the local council was our official feedback to MEPA for the Local Plans public consultation process. Amongst others, Sliema Council expressed its opposition to more large-scale development similar to those at Tigne’ Point and Fort Cambridge; that the coast should be free from further development and should be fully accessible to the public; that permitted building heights should not increase, and should actually decrease in certain cases; that the area near the Police Station should be revived so as to function as a community centre with public services; that a park-and-ride scheme to Sliema be introduced at Manoel Island; that Tigne’ seafront should remain residential rather than be commercialized; that development in urban conservation areas should not simply preserve facades, but also important internal characteristics; that more buildings be scheduled; and that MEPA dedicates more funds to compensate for the impact on development in Sliema.
We expect MEPA to give the Local Council proposals the importance they deserve.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Disability, Education and Maritime Affairs
Michael Briguglio
Sliema Local Council Magazine, Summer 2013
It is with pleasure that this is my fourth legislature as Sliema local councillor since 2003. It is also very satisfying to note that the previous council won a vote of confidence in March’s local elections. The positive and forward-looking attitude by councillors and staff surely played an important role in this regard.
My responsibilities for the 2013-17 legislature are issues related to disability, education and maritime affairs. I also form part of the Council’s committees on finance, public offers and EU affairs.
In this article I wish to point out some of my priorities in the respective fields.
As regards disability, it is important to note that there are various forms of disability. Despite the increased awareness on the rights of persons with disability, ignorance still persists on this issue. For example, people with disability should not be seen as one homogenous group. There are various degrees and types of disability, from the physical to the intellectual and such identities intersect with other identities that each individual has such as gender, class, sexuality, age, and ethnicity. If one translates this to social policy, one would realize that, while all persons with disability should have their rights guaranteed, one cannot adopt one-size-fits-all policies. Persons with disability should have full access to the political, social, economic and cultural spheres of everyday life. Otherwise, it would be society which is disabling people.
One important priority regarding disability is to ensure that Sliema is a fully accessible locality. The current council is working on safer pedestrian pathways, more accessible pavements and public buildings and more accessible beaches. We also intend to ensure that all public spaces, including playing fields, are fully accessible.
As regards education, the Sliema Local Council will shortly launch the Lifelong Learning scheme for 2013-4. As was the case with previous years, the scheme was very successful last year. Next year we aim to further diversify courses on offer, where we also aim to include courses related to wellbeing, social and cultural issues and healthy living, in addition to language courses.
Following various upgrades at the Sliema Library, which is situated in the Primary School building, this year we aim to keep giving this service the importance it deserves. The library is constantly purchasing new books and also offers services such as storytelling for children, internet access and WI-FI.
As regards Maritime Affairs, one main priority is to ensure that beaches are well-organized, accessible and clean. It is for this reason that apart from the public cleaning services, Sliema Local Council works with NGOs and civic-minded persons for beach and underwater clean-ups. As regards the latter, much more awareness has to be created. This is important not only for the maritime ecology, but also for our diving industry, which is an important touristic niche. Sliema Local Council is also ensuring that beaches are not glorified carparks.
Another initiative in which I am involved with other fellow councillors is the drive to make Sliema the most bicycle-friendly locality. Last year we increased bicycle racks, but now is the time to introduce policies to make sure that this green form of transport is enhanced. Bikers’ and pedestrians’ safety is a key priority in this respect. For this reason, Sliema Local Council is regularly meeting persons involved in the field, including members of the Bicycle Advocacy Group.
I wish to emphasize that in various matters, Sliema Local Council depends on approval and/or assistance from Governmental Ministries/Departments/Authorities. In relation to local council reform, this is is a matter that in itself deserves due attention and discussion.
I invite all those who wish to give a helping hand or to send me suggestions regarding the areas I referred to above by emailing me at mbrig@hotmail.com.
Online version of Sliema Local Council Magazine - click here
Sliema Local Council Magazine, Summer 2013
It is with pleasure that this is my fourth legislature as Sliema local councillor since 2003. It is also very satisfying to note that the previous council won a vote of confidence in March’s local elections. The positive and forward-looking attitude by councillors and staff surely played an important role in this regard.
My responsibilities for the 2013-17 legislature are issues related to disability, education and maritime affairs. I also form part of the Council’s committees on finance, public offers and EU affairs.
In this article I wish to point out some of my priorities in the respective fields.
As regards disability, it is important to note that there are various forms of disability. Despite the increased awareness on the rights of persons with disability, ignorance still persists on this issue. For example, people with disability should not be seen as one homogenous group. There are various degrees and types of disability, from the physical to the intellectual and such identities intersect with other identities that each individual has such as gender, class, sexuality, age, and ethnicity. If one translates this to social policy, one would realize that, while all persons with disability should have their rights guaranteed, one cannot adopt one-size-fits-all policies. Persons with disability should have full access to the political, social, economic and cultural spheres of everyday life. Otherwise, it would be society which is disabling people.
One important priority regarding disability is to ensure that Sliema is a fully accessible locality. The current council is working on safer pedestrian pathways, more accessible pavements and public buildings and more accessible beaches. We also intend to ensure that all public spaces, including playing fields, are fully accessible.
As regards education, the Sliema Local Council will shortly launch the Lifelong Learning scheme for 2013-4. As was the case with previous years, the scheme was very successful last year. Next year we aim to further diversify courses on offer, where we also aim to include courses related to wellbeing, social and cultural issues and healthy living, in addition to language courses.
Following various upgrades at the Sliema Library, which is situated in the Primary School building, this year we aim to keep giving this service the importance it deserves. The library is constantly purchasing new books and also offers services such as storytelling for children, internet access and WI-FI.
As regards Maritime Affairs, one main priority is to ensure that beaches are well-organized, accessible and clean. It is for this reason that apart from the public cleaning services, Sliema Local Council works with NGOs and civic-minded persons for beach and underwater clean-ups. As regards the latter, much more awareness has to be created. This is important not only for the maritime ecology, but also for our diving industry, which is an important touristic niche. Sliema Local Council is also ensuring that beaches are not glorified carparks.
Another initiative in which I am involved with other fellow councillors is the drive to make Sliema the most bicycle-friendly locality. Last year we increased bicycle racks, but now is the time to introduce policies to make sure that this green form of transport is enhanced. Bikers’ and pedestrians’ safety is a key priority in this respect. For this reason, Sliema Local Council is regularly meeting persons involved in the field, including members of the Bicycle Advocacy Group.
I wish to emphasize that in various matters, Sliema Local Council depends on approval and/or assistance from Governmental Ministries/Departments/Authorities. In relation to local council reform, this is is a matter that in itself deserves due attention and discussion.
I invite all those who wish to give a helping hand or to send me suggestions regarding the areas I referred to above by emailing me at mbrig@hotmail.com.
Online version of Sliema Local Council Magazine - click here
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Sliema as a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly locality
Yesterday Sliema Local Council had a very positive meeting with the Bicycling Advocacy Group on setting an agenda to improve Sliema's status as a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly locality through sustainable transport policies. Various proposals were put forward, and these will be considered by the Sliema Local Council in addition to measures already being taken by the Council.
Those interested in putting forward proposals in this regard are welcome to contact me at mbrig@hotmail.com
More information on the Bicycling Advocacy Group can be obtained here:
www.bagmalta.org
https://www.facebook.com/groups/158119417606344/
Those interested in putting forward proposals in this regard are welcome to contact me at mbrig@hotmail.com
More information on the Bicycling Advocacy Group can be obtained here:
www.bagmalta.org
https://www.facebook.com/groups/158119417606344/
Friday, April 19, 2013
Monday, January 28, 2013
Works by Transport Malta exclude cyclists & cause inconvenience
Alternattiva Demokratika - The Green Party said that the works being carried out by Transport Malta in Sliema are causing great inconvenience to residents and will also exclude cyclists.
Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson and Sliema Local Councillor, said:
"The rushed works being carried out by Transport Malta at Sliema Ferries are causing a nightmare to pedestrians. Crossing the road is very dangerous, signs are lacking, trees have been removed, and there are no signs of bicycle lanes. As Sliema Local Councillor I am
particularly concerned for persons with disability, parents with pushchairs, children, the elderly and cyclists".
"It seems to be the case that no cycle lanes are being designed to facilitate a safer passageway for cyclists in the Sliema Ferries area. Although the bus lane available on one side of the road could possibly be used by cyclists, it is obvious that this is still not the safest alternative for cyclists, while there is no available option for cyclist on the opposite side of the road. When consulting with the local Bicycle Advocacy Group (BAG) - a non political NGO that advocates for the safer roads for cyclists in Malta, Mr. Craig
Wightman from BAG said that; "If cycle lanes are not present or are not possible, then the most logical addition from a cycling infrastructure point of view is to use Sharrows".
Sharrows are clear markings that create more awareness about cyclists actually on the
road in the form of bicycle pictograms and arrows indicating that the carriageway should be shared. In addition new parking places such as those opposite the Forestalls store (front to kerb parking) are missing a ‘safety zone’ road marking. A Safety zone is a gap between two white dashed lines. This keeps parked vehicles away from the traffic/manoeuvring areas and allows doors to be opened without endangering traffic or cyclists. This particular road was resurfaced and safety zones were not marked although similar markings exist on
other roads.
"Many cities in Europe have adopted cycling lanes in order to decrease the amount of polluting traffic whilst encouraging the safe use of bicycles for commuting". The introduction of cycle lanes in the Sliema area would be idea for cyclists who use these spaces to commute or simply for leisure purposes, and would complement the introduction of cycle racks by Sliema Local Council. The lack of importance given to this kind of infrastructure identifies the government's lack of insight into such alternative, unpolluting whilst efficient means of commuting.
Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson and Sliema Local Councillor, said:
"The rushed works being carried out by Transport Malta at Sliema Ferries are causing a nightmare to pedestrians. Crossing the road is very dangerous, signs are lacking, trees have been removed, and there are no signs of bicycle lanes. As Sliema Local Councillor I am
particularly concerned for persons with disability, parents with pushchairs, children, the elderly and cyclists".
"It seems to be the case that no cycle lanes are being designed to facilitate a safer passageway for cyclists in the Sliema Ferries area. Although the bus lane available on one side of the road could possibly be used by cyclists, it is obvious that this is still not the safest alternative for cyclists, while there is no available option for cyclist on the opposite side of the road. When consulting with the local Bicycle Advocacy Group (BAG) - a non political NGO that advocates for the safer roads for cyclists in Malta, Mr. Craig
Wightman from BAG said that; "If cycle lanes are not present or are not possible, then the most logical addition from a cycling infrastructure point of view is to use Sharrows".
Sharrows are clear markings that create more awareness about cyclists actually on the
road in the form of bicycle pictograms and arrows indicating that the carriageway should be shared. In addition new parking places such as those opposite the Forestalls store (front to kerb parking) are missing a ‘safety zone’ road marking. A Safety zone is a gap between two white dashed lines. This keeps parked vehicles away from the traffic/manoeuvring areas and allows doors to be opened without endangering traffic or cyclists. This particular road was resurfaced and safety zones were not marked although similar markings exist on
other roads.
"Many cities in Europe have adopted cycling lanes in order to decrease the amount of polluting traffic whilst encouraging the safe use of bicycles for commuting". The introduction of cycle lanes in the Sliema area would be idea for cyclists who use these spaces to commute or simply for leisure purposes, and would complement the introduction of cycle racks by Sliema Local Council. The lack of importance given to this kind of infrastructure identifies the government's lack of insight into such alternative, unpolluting whilst efficient means of commuting.
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