A vibrant new cycle lane adorned with tulip-shaped markers made from recycled plastic has been unveiled in central London. Installed along Sussex Gardens in Bayswater, the colorful tulip-topped wands are designed to make cycling infrastructure not only safer but also more visually appealing and environmentally conscious.
These new “Tulip Cycle Wands” will be officially launched on Sunday during the London Cycling Festival, which is taking place over the Bank Holiday weekend. Created by award-winning architectural firm Pitman Tozer, the innovative design incorporates flexible wands with green stalks and bright floral tops. The wands are constructed from recycled plastic collected by Westminster council and are aimed at increasing visibility for drivers, thereby reducing the chances of vehicles encroaching into the cycle lane.
Luke Tozer, director of Pitman Tozer Architects, emphasized the multi-faceted goal of the project. He said the tulip markers exemplify how cities can be enhanced to be safer, greener, and more beautiful at the same time. According to Tozer, even small, joyful changes like these can significantly impact the experience of not just cyclists but everyone navigating the urban environment.
The introduction of the tulip cycle wands coincides with the broader London Cycling Festival, organized by the London Cycling Campaign. This year’s event replaces the annual Ride London festival, which is on pause due to the associated professional cycling race being relocated. The festival brings together cycling enthusiasts across 25 boroughs with a variety of events, including family-friendly rides, bike markets, BMX shows, obstacle courses, live music, and even a unique bicycle ballet.
Several councils are hosting their own local celebrations. Hackney Council is presenting “Hackney Sunday Streets,” a 2km car-free circuit in Hoxton filled with cycling activities and live entertainment. In Hounslow, the Cycling Mela will feature a performance by The Bicycle Ballet Company. Activities are also planned at Hammersmith Bridge, which recently reopened to cyclists and pedestrians.
Event sponsor Lime is contributing by offering free e-bike rides in several boroughs. Hal Stevenson, Lime’s director of policy for the UK and Ireland, shared that 20 percent of their users had never cycled in London before trying Lime, and 60 percent reported cycling more frequently afterward. He emphasized Lime’s commitment to helping more Londoners embrace cycling as a practical and enjoyable mode of transport.
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, welcomed the new festival as an opportunity for residents to experience the joy and freedom of cycling in a supportive and fun environment. He highlighted the value of the marshalled rides for newcomers and less confident riders.
Tom Fyans, chief executive of the London Cycling Campaign, expressed his excitement about collaborating with councils and Lime to deliver the event. He described May 25 as a perfect opportunity for families and communities to come together and celebrate the cycling culture across the capital through inclusive and guided rides.
Hackney’s Mayor, Caroline Woodley, echoed the enthusiasm, noting that transforming streets into festive, car-free zones provides a wonderful incentive for people to explore London by bike. She emphasized the importance of creating enjoyable and safe spaces to promote walking, cycling, and wheeling as accessible and sustainable travel choices.
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