Cycling in most cities is a luxury. The pair of bad infrastructure and congested roads make cycling in a city a borderline chore. However, across the world, some cities have inculcated a rather serene cycling culture. The most popular example that springs to mind would be Amsterdam in The Netherlands, where cycling is the primary move. Besides being a fun way to travel, cycling is also economical and green. Additionally, it keeps you exercised with relative ease. So, it’s not a wonder more people are pushing for cycling-friendly infrastructure in cities. One such city that is pushing for it is Dublin via. the Dublin Cycling Campaign.

The Dublin Cycling Campaign just completed its 30th birthday. Volunteers celebrated the day by reflecting on efforts spanning three decades to make the city cycling-friendly.

The Evolution of Dublin Cycling Campaign

The Dublin Cycling Campaign emerged in 1993 as a response to a series of utterly horrific road traffic crashes. Many citizens walking or biking along the city’s quays faced fatal incidents at the hands of heavy goods vehicles. Between 1996-98, there were three biking-related deaths a year on average, while pedestrian fatalities stood at 22 a year. Initially, the campaign primarily focused on pushing for safe conditions for everyday cycling.

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The cycling revolution had long begun before the Dublin Cycling Campaign came into being. Pro-cycling groups have been fighting the fight since the 1980s. One of the most important, in the 90s, was the Irish Cycling Advocacy Network – formed by 7 groups to push authorities into investing more in cycling. The group now has over 35 branches, with a strong rural dimension that supports cycling enthusiasts.

In more recent memory, those who champion cycling have partnered up with groups like An Taisce or broader causes like Stop Climate Chaos and the Active Travel Coalition. However, these groups are more concerned with calls for decarbonization and public health benefits.

Looking back at DCC

DCC Chair Ellen Cullen brought in the 30-year celebrations, saying she was proud of DCC’s part in furthering cycling culture. “I am proud of the part Dublin Cycling Campaign has played in helping to make this happen through both noisy, sociable campaigning and quiet, detailed, diligent submissions. Happy 30th Birthday Dublin Cycling Campaign,” she said. She added that she looks forward to cycling on new sections coming online imminently.

Former DCC Chairman Dr. Mike McKillen compared DCC today to DCC in the 80s and marveled over the progress it has made. “Social media availability was a game-changer, in my view, for us, along with an improved website thanks to long-time member Conor Cahill,” he said. Several other former chiefs spoke as well, reminiscing their time at DCC and its progress over 30 years. A message from European Cyclists’ Federation President Henk Swarttouw said, “ECF sends its congratulations to Dublin Cycling Campaign on its 30th Birthday.” He also wished DCC well with the hope they keep working towards their cause.

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