Ethnic inequalities in cycling to work in London: mobility injustice and regional approach

Abstract

This paper investigates ethnic inequity in cycling to work in London, as ethnic minorities in London cycle to work less frequently than white Londoners. The study adopts three methods: spatial statistics, linear regression and spatial econometrics based on recent UK census and of fi cial statistical data (2011 – 17) of 33 London regions. Spatial analysis shows that cycling networks and bike schemes are concentrated around Inner London. Regions with less cycling infrastructure tend to have a greater proportion of residents of ethnic minorities. The paper highlights the spatial dependence between ethnic inequalities and cycling to work at a regional level in London. There is also evidence of spatial spillovers between neighbouring regions. The paper highlights the need to shift the policy focus from the provision of cycling infrastructure to mobility justice. This means recognizing the needs of distinct groups of cyclists coming from various ethnic minorities. Overall, this paper expands the transportation policies approach by linking it with the concepts of mobilities and regional inequalities. This study of London demonstrates the mechanisms responsible for regional ethnic inequalities in cycling to work that could be relevant in other large urban agglomerations.