Photomap

[Images from 12.8.22 see: #185472 and links] [Image taken 11.3.21] Entrance to people on cycles and on foot at Covid-19 vaccination site, Askham Bar, York. 'Active travel' modes legitimised. Entrance clearly signed. Sheffield racks visible behind yellow sign. Large (rear right in image) toilet blocks available. The day of my jab was very, very blustery with intermittent rain. Riding on Bishopthorpe or Tadcaster Roads would have been unpleasant and hazardous due to the strength of the wind, the lack of segregated cycle lanes, and the narrowness of the onroad ones. Many drivers don't get that people on cycles need a much wider space in wild weather. Designers of cycle facilities don't seem to be aware of this either.
As Terry Avenue (see #164634) was still open to people on cycles and foot, I knew I could get to the site. The vaccination centre is next to a Tesco Extra. Because Terry Ave was still open I knew I could do my weekly shop after having my jab and get home safely despite the weather. The 'alternative' route (see #164095) devised by the Environment Agency for the duration of the flood works is too up and down, too stop-start, too narrow, and with too many junctions for me to use especially with a laden cycle. My second jab is due after Terry Ave has closed. I will have to hope there is an alternative location to have it as I do not consider any of the three road routes safe. Yet we need to up the levels of physical activity in our lives and active travel is one of the strands. And there can't be a much better destination than a health facility for an intervention that will improve the life of the individual and society. Segregated or traffic-free routes enable people to continue to make their journeys in inclement weather - for example lashing rain when visibility for all is limited. Further, making the routes continuous means people can keep warm. Increasing the convenience and reducing the physical discomfort means people are more likely to cycle even in cold, wet, very windy conditions - and after dark. Terry Ave is an excellent example of what routes should be like. For all. See also #165153 and #164094. Where will these families ride while Terry Ave is closed? The 'alternative' is not a realistic option see: #168829, #174756.