Free cycling data for local authorities

All planners and local authorities will be able to request free cycling data reports for their area

See.Sense co-founder Irene McAleese spoke to ITV news

See.Sense co-founder Irene McAleese spoke to ITV news

See.Sense, a Northern Ireland-based cycling technology and data startup, has added a new 'Infrastructure Request' option to its app, which will allow cyclists to give insights into how they think routes they cycle could be improved, such as adding more space and separation to cycle lanes, more bike parking and improvements to traffic signal timing to reduce queuing. 

All planners and local authorities will be able to request free cycling data reports for their area simply by registering online with See.Sense throughout the summer. Check the See.Sense website for further information.

We understand that city planners and local authorities need robust evidence and a data-led approach when applying to receive additional Government funding for cycling infrastructure in their local area. Previously, that data might have been incomplete or anecdotal because there was no established way of gathering cyclist data

The new move follows the publication of the #SeeSenseReport campaign, an initiative aimed at making cycling safer.

In response to the COVID crisis, See.Sense opened its app to all cyclists, not only users of the light, to help make UK roads safer. The first element in the See.Sense campaign saw a free feature added to the app that enables all cyclists to report issues including potholes, close passes, collisions and obstructions, with capabilities specifically relating to social distancing following shortly.

See.Sense will be sharing insights in the 'Data for cycle network and infrastructure planning' webinar on June 19

Speaking to ITV news, See.Sense co-founder Irene McAleese, who started the firm with her husband Philip, said the app’s new request feature and the data gathered from it could help planning for the changes sparked by the pandemic.

'This is a great opportunity for the thriving cycling community in the UK to come together and help make our cities safer, cleaner and more enjoyable places to cycle and walk. That’s why our app is free to everybody who wants to contribute to this effort,' she said.

'We understand that city planners and local authorities need robust evidence and a data-led approach when applying to receive additional Government funding for cycling infrastructure in their local area. Previously, that data might have been incomplete or anecdotal because there was no established way of gathering cyclist data.

'We want to use our technology to make a positive impact, especially in response to Covid-19, which is why all planners and local authorities will be able to request free reports for their area simply by registering online throughout the summer.'