All bike users are saying is:- 'Give Cyclists Space'

LAST year 131 cyclists were injured on Liverpool's roads, with 33 riders suffering serious injuries; now bike users are saying:- 'Give cyclists some space.'

As cycling numbers rise with the warmer weather, Liverpool City Council is calling on road users to take extra care.

The Highway Code states that pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable road users must be given priority, and those operating larger vehicles bear the greatest responsibility in keeping roads safe.

5 simple actions that drivers can take will lead to safer roads for all:-

Stay Alert; Make frequent observations and anticipate potential hazards.
Look for Cyclists; Especially near:- junctions, roundabouts, or when overtaking.
Avoid Distractions; Stay focused on the road, put your phone away!
Give Space; Leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking at speeds up to:- 30mph, more at higher speeds.
Use the Dutch Reach; if possible open your door from the inside with the hand that's furthest from the door handle, this action naturally causes you to turn your body and look over your shoulder, allowing you to check for approaching cyclists or pedestrians.

Cyclists also have a responsibility to ride safely and considerately, obeying:- traffic signals and allowing faster vehicles to pass when safe.

Liverpool City Council is also promoting Bikeability classes in Schools to teach young cyclists the skills needed to navigate roads confidently.

In 2024-25, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) funded over 15,000 Bikeability places, working towards a national target of offering cycle training to 80% of all Year 5/6 pupils.

For adults, LCRCA's Adult Cycle Training programme has delivered over 100 skills and maintenance sessions, benefiting more than 1,000 people.

Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said:- "Liverpool City Council remains committed to making roads safer for all users; whether pedestrians, cyclists, or motorists. The Council's Active Travel strategy has made some great strides in recent years. We are focussed on encouraging more people to cycle, moving around the City seamlessly. A crucial part of this is ensuring that people feel safe when they are on their bikes. By working together, we can reduce collisions, promote healthier travel choices, and create a more cycle-friendly city. All we are saying is give cyclists some space."

Claire McColgan CBE awarded Honorary Doctorate from Edge Hill University

CLAIRE McColgan CBE has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts from Edge Hill University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the arts and culture sector in the UK and her transformative impact on Liverpool's cultural identity and economy. Claire, currently Director of Culture for Liverpool and Associate Director of Liverpool City Region, has worked for Liverpool City Council for 23 years, playing a pivotal role in the City's dynamic arts and cultural revival.

Speaking about receiving the award, Claire said:- "I am proud because you don't ever expect anything like this, , it's a real honour. I really looked forward to visiting Edge Hill, it's such a beautiful campus and it was a great day out. These days are special and if I look back at my 19 year old self who 1st came to University, I'd have never imagined that I would be invited back to receive an Honorary Doctorate. It's incredible."

In 2000, Claire developed the successful participation programme:- 'Creative Communities' a cornerstone of Liverpool's successful bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2008. She went on to serve as Executive Producer for the landmark year, curating and delivering a world-class programme of events that embedded culture deeply within communities.

Since then, Claire has spearheaded some of the UK's most spectacular cultural events including:- the Royal de Luxe Giant Spectaculars, named Visit England's Tourism Event of the Year in 2016, and the globally-acclaimed 1 Magnificent City programme. These events attracted millions of visitors to Liverpool and brought tens of millions of pounds into the Regional economy. Most recently, Claire led Liverpool's successful bid to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 on behalf of Ukraine, which attracted 500,000 visitors.

Of her work in Liverpool, Claire said:- "I'm really proud of what I have gone on to achieve for the city, myself and my family. I've got 2 children who have both grown up in this brilliant City and hopefully for students, when they see where I've come from and what I've done, they can think that 'I can do the same,' because they can. It's all possible. It's having the right attitude and opportunities and grabbing it with both hands."

Claire McColgan's career as a leader in the arts and culture sector aligns closely with the values of creativity, innovation and community engagement that Edge Hill University fosters in its students.

Through her work in Liverpool, particularly in leading major events such as:- 'European Capital of Culture' and 'Eurovision 2023,' Claire has played a pivotal role in shaping the Region's cultural identity and inspiring future generations of cultural leaders.

As a champion of the North West, her dedication to widening access to the arts mirrors Edge Hill's mission to broaden participation in education.

Claire added:- "I know a lot of Edge Hill University students come from a similar sort of background to me. I was the only person to go to University from my family. I have done really well by committing to a place, remaining there and growing my career."

Claire was awarded the honorary doctorate at Edge Hill's summer graduation ceremonies on its Ormskirk campus in July 2025.

Find out more about studying Creative Arts at Edge Hill University and sign up to an Open Day, The next is on:- 16 August 2025.

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All bike users are saying is:- 'Give Cyclists Space'

Claire McColgan CBE awarded Honorary Doctorate from Edge Hill University