Recycling plastic for ‘cycle wands’ in aim to help improve safety
It’s a perennial problem for cyclists: how to be seen both constantly – and consistently. You can wear high visibility clothing, and, of course, that all important cycle helmet, but is there anything else that can be done to help people cycling through the streets?
Step forward: Tulip Cycle Wands. This ingenious invention sees wands ‘planted’ into the outer section of a cycle lane. A tulip at the top of the stem provides a clear indicator to any driver that the route is designated for cyclists.
The team behind the design say that the poles will create a ‘bold vision for safer cycling.’ Cycling is seen as an increasingly popular way to ensure an environmentally friendly approach to transport.
As such, the wands themselves are created in a ‘green’ way with a focus on using recycled plastic.
Image: © Pitman Tozer
Supporters describe them as a ‘vibrant rainbow of Tulip Cycle Wands.’ It’s part of a trial to ‘make London’s cycle lanes safer, greener, and more beautiful.’ The scheme’s been designed by award-winning architects, Pitman Tozer.
The first part of the scheme is about to be officially unveiled at Sussex Gardens in Westminster at the weekend.
‘We believe cities can be safer, greener, and more beautiful all at once,’ says Luke Tozer, Director of Pitman Tozer Architects.
‘The Tulip Cycle Wands show how small, joyful changes can make a big difference, not just for cyclists, but for everyone moving through the city.’
Image: © Pitman Tozer
Flexible tulip-shaped wands made with recycled plastic
The newly appointed Lord Mayor of Westminster, Paul Dimoldenberg, will be officially opening London’s first ever tulip cycle lane.
The flexible tulip-shaped wands are made with recycled plastic collected by Westminster City Council. The installation coincides with the London Cycling Festival.
‘We’re delighted Sussex Gardens is the first street in the world to have these delightful tulip cycle wands, designed by Luke Tozer,’ says Cllr Max Sullivan, Cabinet Member for Streets
‘They make you smile and make the street safer for cycling. What’s not to love? We look forward to seeing more tulip cycle wands blossoming on Westminster streets and hopefully around the world.’
On Sunday (25 May), the London Cycling Campaign is leading a ride in Westminster. It’ll be taking in Sussex Gardens and the new Tulip Cycle Wands on their way.
Local schoolchildren from Hampden Gurney School have also helped decorate special tulips at each end of the installation – ensuring the project has deep community roots from the outset.
‘Cycling is a fantastic way to travel and an easy way to see the sights in our city. Thank you to Pitman Tozer Architects for inviting me to unveil the first one in London,’ says Cllr. Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, The Lord Mayor of Westminster.
‘These new Tulip Cycle Wands add a pop of colour along Sussex Gardens, and I hope they bring a smile to cyclists for many years to come.’
Breaktime News has previously reported on calls for motorists to take extra care when driving in areas where there are lower limits in place.
Image: © Pitman Tozer
