Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ghent ranks 3rd globally in the Copenhagenize Index. Alderman Joris Vandenbroucke and expert Hajo Beeckman highlight the city’s 30-year cycling policy, while Antwerp ranks 8th with 64.4 points.
As VRT News reported, Ghent has been ranked the 3rd most bicycle-friendly city in the world by the international Copenhagenize Index. The report praises the city’s cycling infrastructure and urban planning.
“It’s an inspiration for other cities worldwide,”
it says.
“This is definitely recognition,”
says mobility expert Hajo Beeckman.
“The index is leading.”
How did Ghent achieve bronze in the global bicycle-friendly city ranking?
Ghent is recognised for competing with major European capitals like Amsterdam, Paris, and Helsinki. The index evaluates 13 criteria, including cycling safety, parking policy, and the allocation of public space for bikes versus cars. Experts say Ghent’s consistent cycling policy over the past 30 years has been key to its high ranking and serves as a model for sustainable city mobility.
The Copenhagenize Index notes that Ghent has followed a clear cycling strategy since 1992. The city has expanded bike lanes, improved traffic flow for cyclists, and created safer routes. Ghent scored 676 out of 1000 points, behind Utrecht with 711 and Copenhagen with 708.
“The city also pioneered cycling in its own country by being the first local authority to introduce a bicycle street,”
the report states.
Ghent’s 2017 circulation plan is seen as a major step in improving the city for cyclists.
“Bicycle use has increased significantly and has transformed the city. A combination of smart urban planning and bold choices has ensured that Ghent has become not only a bicycle-friendly city, but also a people-friendly one,”
the report concludes.
Alderman Joris Vandenbroucke (For Ghent) said the city will keep investing in safe cycling paths, with special attention for children and young cyclists. Former alderman Filip Watteeuw (Green) welcomed the recognition and said consistent planning is key to Ghent’s cycling achievements.
Antwerp also scored highly in the ranking, coming 8th worldwide with 64.4 out of 100. The city has added more cycling lanes and improved safety measures. Officials said Antwerp’s results show that careful planning and investment in cycling infrastructure can make cities safer and more accessible for cyclists.
“Antwerp demonstrates how a well-functioning port city can also be a cycling city. The city actively seeks out bicycle parking facilities, which aren’t always available in the densely populated city centre. The strength of its cycling policy also lies in its inclusivity. Cycling is widespread: children, seniors, women, and men of all backgrounds cycle there,”
the report states.
The Copenhagenize Index started in 2011 and ranks the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities every 2 years. The Danish firm Copenhagenize Design Company creates the list with help from mobility experts and researchers. The ranking looks at cycling safety, lane networks, parking, and how cities balance bikes and cars.
Copenhagen, the Danish capital, gives the index its name and serves as a model for cycling-friendly cities. The report is used by cities worldwide to improve bike infrastructure and promote sustainable urban transport.
