The shifting politics of London cycling

Last night thousands of cyclists descended on Westminster to make their feelings known about the capital's streets.

There is still considerable frustration amongst cyclists about the rate of change in the capital and that's despite London being ahead of the curve compared to some other UK cities.

It also marked the realisation of a policy change in the mainstream cycling fraternity.

In effect, the organisers the London Cycling Campaign (LCC) last night showed their teeth.

More aggressive

Over time, they have become more aggressive after many cyclists started questioning why they were not following the stance of the more demanding cycling bloggers.

Last night it resulted in a huge turnout and crucially they also accused Mayor of London Boris Johnson of ignoring their calls for more segregation.

That went down extremely badly at City Hall especially with the Cycling Commissioner Andrew Gilligan, who accused the LCC of attracting people under false pretences.

He said the investment in the roads would be seen soon.

The LCC said it is just making sure the promises for better infrastructure are delivered.

But it makes for a tense relationship now between cycling campaigners and even the pro-cycling lobby at City Hall.

We will see if that hampers or hinders the mayor's grand plans for two wheels.