Interesting.I’d like to learn more about a particular perspective with regard to cycling in the local area. Please know this is coming from a place of curiosity and wanting to understand those whose opinions might differ from my own. I’d appreciate feedback from those who might see themselves as sharing this perspective. So certain projects in Chiswick haven’t been unanimously popular -e.g. the bike lane. In some portrayals of the disagreement over this, those opposed to the plan (in certain forms) have been portrayed more simplistically than is of course actually the case (and vice versa). I’d be grateful if someone who maybe leans towards or identifies with movements such as One Chiswick might answer my question: Movements such as OneChiswick often say that many members of the group already cycle and ride bikes. I get that a distinction which says supporters of a bike lane ride bikes and opponents drive cars is far too simplistic. There are also 2 different groups as it were who do not form ‘our group’ (from the perspective of members of OneChiswick). These are, broadly, those who introduce changes to the local area (councillors, TFL, Mayor of London, etc) and then there are fellow residents who support said changes. I guess my question is, if you as someone who identifies with movements like OneChiswick may ride a bike, might you give some indication as to key ideas where your views differ to this second group? I’d be particularly interested in hearing from those who cycle and who identify more with a movement such as OneChiswick. For instance in this case, the difference between a person like this and a fellow resident with differing views is not a driver/cyclist dichotomy (I’m pretty sure at least). Concern for climate impact may also actually align between the two residents, despite what may commonly be predicted. Is there some ideas tied up in a term like ‘cyclist’ as opposed to ‘bike rider’ which might explain some aspects? Basically, a supporter of a new bike lane project does not ‘other’ an opponent simply due to this particular stance (and vice versa). There’s more ideas being formed and connected here. I’d be very keen to hear what ideas come to mind when one who is not keen on the bike lane considers the fellow residents who are. I hope we can all have a measured discussion.Thank you
Edward Kent ● 10d