Monitoring/Policy
New Cycling Open Data Portal previewed at Cycling Scotland Conference
17 November 2023
As part of a day of networking and knowledge sharing opportunities at the recent Cycling Scotland Conference in Edinburgh, delegates were given a sneak preview of the new and improved Cycling Open Data portal - the home of active travel data in Scotland.
As delegates explored the theme of "Cycling towards a healthier, fairer, safer and greener Scotland" through presentations and breakout sessions, the exhibition area provided a different perspective with, for example, the Cycling Open Data portal stand showing how access to, and application of data can be used to support everything from local community groups campaigning for quieter streets to urban planners looking at the effectiveness of existing cycle infrastructure.
The new digital portal, which is currently in late-stage development, was showcased by developers UrbanTide, with attendees able to get hands-on and test out the newly updated interface and interactive map featuring real-time cycling data from a range of sources.
Users reported the refreshed interface being much more user friendly, with more clearly presented statistics, 3D maps and data visualisation. Feedback from delegates representing community organisations, schools and local authorities also highlighted the ability to more quickly home in on active travel data from their local area through the revamped high-level exploration map.
Excitingly, and in a first for the platform, the newly updated portal will incorporate walking data contributed by the Scottish charity, Paths for All, allowing researchers, policy and decision makers and anyone else with an interest in active travel data, to access national walking and cycling in one place for the first time.
Having this data together, in an easily accessible platform helps drive more effective, purpose-driven decision making, leading to delivery of well-designed sustainable spaces which ultimately means people enjoy using the spaces they live and work in.
Look out for more info on the newly updated Cycling Open Data Portal soon.