Spain’s new Highway Code comes into effect on October 1st, bringing significant changes regarding cycling. Read more about these changes here.
A new 20mph speed limit is planned for the entire city of Birmingham in the UK, and the headline of this BBC article summarises the arguments on both sides: ‘Life saver’ or ‘war on cars’?
The city councillor from the Reform (far-right) party, who opposes the change, stated that his party advocates a “data-driven approach” targeting individuals who “drive recklessly,” noting that “a blanket ban is not the solution.” This argument, that the problem is not speed itself, but rather a small minority of reckless drivers responsible for most traffic accidents, was devised by the automotive industry in the early 20th century to prevent the implementation of speed limits and speed governors in cars. Fortunately, it is now widely accepted that speed kills and, furthermore, that lowering speed limits helps foster social activity and create a more pleasant urban environment.
This article makes a good case for all cities to be 20mph cities. In this, at least, Greece is ahead: since the beginning of 2026 there is a blanket 30 km/h limit on urban streets. How this is enforced in practice is a different story.
Other news:
We previously discussed the positive impact of the Ultra Low Emission Zone on children’s health in London. Now, new research from New York shows that improved air quality is linked to better cognitive development in toddlers.
A modelling study showed that a small change in school start times could reduce morning traffic congestion. I am not criticising the quality of the study itself, but rather its policy implications: it is an example of a short-term fix that fails to address the root problem: namely, that people in our cities should not be forced to drive their children to school.
Sustainable mobility is gaining ground… but not everywhere:
In the Netherlands, a new cycle route between Woerden and Utrecht has just opened
After 30 years, Minnesota’s longest paved bike path is finally finished
Denmark has a strong cycling culture, yet research indicates that cycling rates are declining. The reason? Car ownership has become cheaper, and far more money is being spent on highways than on cycling infrastructure. (This tells us that, with the right incentives and infrastructure, any country can develop a strong cycling culture… is anyone in Greece listening?)
What is happening in Toronto? Ontario announces the mass removal of bike lanes.
Meanwhile, in Athens: ‘Athens Riviera’ cycle lane hits bumps 🙃
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