Walking and cycling infrastructure: is it a waste of your money?

Overview

Blanket 20 mph! Cycle lanes that nobody uses! So why do a bunch of Lycra-clad activists on bikes want to slow down our towns and cities to the speed of the 1800s?

In this presentation, Tom Wharf will demonstrate how smart engineers have been asked to solve the wrong problem for decades… and got really good at it. In this provocative talk, we’ll explore how decades of engineering have focused on solving the wrong problem; using all available street space for moving and storing our vehicles, while undermining the places we live, work and love.

Drawing on his background in flood risk engineering, Tom compares the outdated focus on “conveyance” in both water and transport systems. In flood management, straightening rivers to move water quickly led to ecological damage and increased downstream flooding. Today, natural flood management and river restoration offer more sustainable, effective solutions. 

Transport engineering is undergoing a similar shift. Prioritising road space and parking has created urban environments that sever communities, harm public health, and stifle economic and social activity. Wide roads sever. Fast cars kill. Car-centric design leaves us isolated, unhealthy, and financially burdened.

But change is underway. Just as flood engineers embraced restoration, transport professionals are now advocating for people-first design.

Tom will show the power of this change to heal broken communities and unhealthy lifestyles, and its potential to tackle climate changes’ causes and mitigate its impacts. He will also show you why it matters to your wallet today and to our economy in perpetuity to make this change happen… and fast!