‘Travel Diaries From Around Birmingham’
Chris Crean- Bike
Living in south Birmingham and only a few miles from Allison Street I tend to cycle to work. I usually try to stop off for a swim at Moseley Road baths on my way into work from home. I have a number of choices from the A435 to an off road route from the Ladypool Road to the Middle ring road, which is the single major barrier on my way to work, otherwise I find it to be a relaxing cycle and usually arrive at work refreshed and fairly focused on the day ahead as a result of some pre day planning while cycling along. We are very fortunate to have adequate cycle parking here at Allison St as well as some that are under cover and out of the weather. We even have a cycle shop, Sprocket Cycles if urgent repairs are required
Crossing the Middle Ring Road A4540 can be somewhat problematic but not a show stopper. Overall traffic levels and the behaviour of a·small number of vehicle drivers can be irritating at times. Hopefully the Wiggins effect will result in more respect for cyclists all over the region. Parking a bicycle at New St station when en route to other parts of the country is to say the least not the best. This could change, hopefully for the better, as a result of all the work taking place at the station.
I enjoy cycling for a huge number of reasons; however if my bike is off the road, first choice would be to walk BUT if time was an issue i’d get the bus. I do have a full driving licence and as such can drive BUT I choose not to use a vehicle unless it is essential.
