Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper): The Vooruit party in Antwerp wants mopeds and speed pedelecs to use roads instead of bike paths, which Vincent De Wilde from Speed Pedelec Vlaanderen criticizes for safety concerns. Oskar Seuntiens from Vooruit supports speed pedelecs and wants safer roads. A new agreement is being discussed.
Before the October 9 elections, the Vooruit party in Antwerp launched a campaign urging mopeds and speed pedelecs to use the road instead of cycle paths. This move has drawn criticism from Speed Pedelec Vlaanderen, whose spokesman, Vincent De Wilde, argued that it would increase the danger for cyclists and discourage people from switching from cars to speed pedelecs, which is vital for promoting alternative transportation.
What measures will Antwerp’s Vooruit Party take to ensure speed pedelec safety?
According to De Wilde, people use fast electric bikes for work and family outings. He notes that some riders go only 15 kilometers per hour, making it safer on bike paths. While some ride too fast, this happens with other vehicles too. He wants everyone to drive safely and for rules to be enforced. Speed Pedelec Vlaanderen is asking the Vooruit party and Antwerp city council how they will keep speed pedelecs safe.
Oskar Seuntjens from the Vooruit party supports speed pedelecs and wants to ensure they can ride safely in Antwerp. He believes that it’s a good idea to allow them on some busy roads and near schools, while also creating more space for all road users. A new agreement is being discussed, but it’s unclear if it will address speed pedelecs. Seuntjens hopes to work with the N-VA party to improve road safety.
