In my experience, London is a horrible, filthy place. I hate it.
It is this way because there is too much traffic.
The standard of driving I've witnessed is terrible, so incredibly agressive and general awareness of surroundings is nil.
Although I believe driving standards in general are getting worse, even up in the north...
When I lived close enough to work, I cycled, it was quicker than driving through traffic and it was fantastic for my health - especially as I sit most of the day. It was also dirt cheap, which was great as I was on minimum wage at the time.
Anyone who has cycled is aware everyone is out to kill them, not intentionally, but through stupidity.
Currently I'm on the motorbike for commuting, the viewpoint is perfect for seeing everyone on their phone, I tap on the windows.
Also, the motorbike is cheaper to run, tax, insure and the journey is quicker.
Before anyone gets on it, filtering is legal!
I also commute via van/car too, so I'd like to think I can see all sides.
Now, back to London. It's dirty because of traffic, too much traffic, more traffic than the city can handle.
Bicycles (and motorcycles) reduce congestion and emissions.
Also they are significantly cheaper to run.
Commuting into London by car? You have to be loaded!
LEZ compliant vehicle, Congestion charge, fuel etc. Cycle and you get to actually put your pay to something better (or eat and stuff, I imagine alot just simply can't afford it.)
Imagine central London if there were improved vehicle restriction - so, Buses, Taxi's, vehicle's being used for trade, Bikes and Cycles. Sorry, no private cars
(natural exemption would be residents).
Anybody have statistics for proportion of London road users? I imagine a significant volume being private drivers, solo in a car.
Anyone ever been to Holland? The cycling culture is fantastic, the air is clean and the people are happy.