What if your childhood bike rides could shape an entire city?
In this People & Projects episode of the Streets and People podcast, cycle planner James Laing from Stantec reveals how those early rides inspired his mission to design streets where everyone feels welcome.
James shares stories from London’s Healthy Streets initiative, where cycling superhighways proved that small, bold changes can ripple across a city. He recalls overcoming roadblocks like outdated traffic models and resistance to trial projects – challenges that might feel familiar to you.
But James doesn’t just talk about problems. He explains how
listening to communities and starting with simple, low-cost trials can lead to streets where kids can bike, parents feel safe walking, and congestion isn’t the only story. His message? Real change is possible when you focus on people instead of just numbers.
If Melbourne, London, and even car-dominant parts of America can rethink urban spaces, so can your city. Tune in for practical advice and fresh perspectives you can use in your own neighbourhood.
James mentions Will Symons thesis https://minerva-access.unimelb.edu.au/items/9ee4887b-3d01-4149-aa88-112f2b6620f9
For bike lane design resources for professionals, you're welcome to check out our page https://getaroundcaboolture.au/resources-for-professionals
www.GetAroundCaboolture.au
