Lime Policy Director Calls for Traffic Light Retiming to Boost London Cyclist Safety
London should take inspiration from leading cycling cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam by retiming traffic lights to reward safe cyclists, according to Lime's UK policy director Hal Stevenson. This call comes as Transport for London (TfL) implements plans to give buses priority at all 3,500 signals on bus routes across the capital by 2030.
Cyclists Deserve Smoother Journeys Too
While TfL's bus priority initiative represents a welcome step toward faster, more reliable public transport and reduced car dependency, Stevenson argues that cyclists shouldn't be overlooked in this process. Cycling now accounts for up to one in five trips in central London, with cycle traffic at peak times actually exceeding cars. Despite this significant modal share, signal timings remain predominantly set around motor traffic speeds, leading to frequent stopping and less smooth journeys for people on bikes.
This oversight occurs against the backdrop of London's impressive cycling infrastructure expansion. Over the past decade, TfL has grown the capital's cycling network from approximately 90km in 2016 to over 430km last year. Rethinking traffic light timing could represent a natural next step in building upon this success.
The 'Green Wave' Solution
Other leading cycling cities demonstrate what's possible through innovative approaches. 'Green wave' technology, which rewards cyclists travelling at a safe, consistent speed with a sequence of green lights, has proven effective in improving safety and rider behaviour while reducing journey times at relatively low cost.
This approach could also help address the issue of red-light running. Research suggests this behaviour is often driven by cyclists attempting to escape unsafe situations, such as feeling exposed to traffic at junctions. By creating smoother, more predictable journeys, better signal timing could reduce such risky behaviour.
Complementing Bus Priority Plans
Stevenson emphasises that cyclist-friendly signal timing needn't come at the expense of bus priority. Cycling already helps extend the reach of public transport, with a significant number of Lime riders using bikes to connect with buses and the Tube. He suggests trialling cyclist-friendly signal timings away from core bus routes, particularly in areas with high cycle use and lower car traffic, would complement TfL's existing plans and help London's transport ecosystem work better for everyone.
Community Cycling Initiatives
Beyond infrastructure improvements, Stevenson highlights the importance of community engagement in building London's cycling culture. One of the most rewarding aspects of his role involves spending time with the capital's growing cycling community and witnessing how small changes can create significant impact.
Lime's Share the Joy cycling fund, run in partnership with London Cycling Campaign and LOUD mobility, has already awarded £212,000 to over 80 community groups and organisations. A standout example involves Risley Avenue Primary School in Tottenham, Haringey, located near Lime's North London warehouse. As one of London's only schools to integrate cycling into its curriculum, the programme faced threats when training bikes needed replacement and repair. Share the Joy funding enabled the school to upgrade its fleet and will help train hundreds more students to begin their cycling journeys.
The next funding window opens in Spring, offering further opportunities to support community cycling projects across the capital.
Authenticity in Recruitment
Stevenson also shares insights from his current hiring process, where he's added a question about why applicants want to work at Lime. Approximately 30 percent of responses include opening lines about the company operating at the "intersection of public policy, commercial delivery, and social impact" or similar phrasing. While welcoming candidates who collaborate with AI tools, Stevenson emphasises the importance of thoughtful, honest application responses that demonstrate genuine understanding and interest.
Personal Recommendations
For those seeking dining experiences, Stevenson recommends Canal in Westbourne Park for group celebrations, noting its delicious food, kind staff, and beautiful location on the Grand Union Canal perfect for pre- or post-meal walks. For television viewing, he suggests Landman seasons 1 and 2 on Paramount+ as ideal relaxation after big bike ride days, describing it as Taylor Sheridan's shift to big oil following his breakthrough Yellowstone series.
