MEPs in plenary voted, on Thursday 16 February, in favour of a resolution tabled by the Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport, Karima Delli (Greens/EFA, French), on the development of a European cycling strategy.
“The European Parliament takes a historic first step to unlock the potential of cycling in Europe, with benefits for health, climate and jobs. The cycling ecosystem represents one million jobs in Europe and has the potential to reach two million by 2030”, commented Ms Delli.
The text calls firstly for an increase in the number of cycle paths, separate infrastructure and parking spaces reserved for bicycles. The resolution also suggests that regional and local authorities integrate cycling, affordable electric bikes and bike-sharing schemes into urban mobility plans.
Moreover, the text states, synergies between cycling and other modes of transport should be increased. The competent authorities should also work on reducing VAT rates for the supply, hire and repair of bicycles and e-bikes.
Finally, in addition to stronger support for producers of ‘Made in Europe’ bicycles, MEPs call on the European Commission to designate 2024 as the ‘European Year of Cycling’.
See the resolution: https://aeur.eu/f/5d5 (Original version in French by Thomas Mangin)