For many workers across the world, cycling acts as both a regular mode of transportation and a leisure activity. Cycling to work makes for a low-cost carbon efficient commute, one that appeals to both an increasingly environmental conscious and healthy workforce. World Bicycle Day is an annual celebration that took place on 3rd June this year, and aims to promote cycling as a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to travel.

Why accommodating cyclists matters for developers and occupiers 

In our latest edition of Impacts, we look at what defines a prime office today and in our survey of the Savills global network we found that the most important factor for a prime office is proximity to key transport hubs. This emphasis on good connectivity reaches the core of the flight-to-quality trend for many tenants, and demonstrates how companies across the world are actively making leasing decisions to encourage employees back to the office.

This proximity to transport hubs is important, but commuting to work isn’t limited to public transport or driving. Office buildings can include amenities that attract employees who may be inclined to bike to work, and by accommodating these people developers can encourage them into the office and draw more value to their buildings and communities.

In our most recent Prime Office Costs report, we examined some of the trends behind new prime offices that are in development across the world. Wellness facilities and green credentials are two features that are highly valued in new offices globally, and new buildings that include best-in-class end-of-journey amenities for cyclists can meet both those goals. Incorporating facilities such as bike racks, showers, and lockers for employees can not only improve the commute for people who bike into work and encourage more healthy, low carbon commuting among employees.

Healthy commuters create healthy communities

Landlords and occupiers are not the only ones with sustainability goals. Cities and governments have good reason to encourage this type of commuting, not only as a way of continuing to drive investment and development of office space, but also as a way to reduce traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions. The average car emits about 271g of CO2 per passenger kilometre, whereas biking cuts that number down to 21g. While the hobby is enjoyed by all age groups, those aged between 16-24 are the most likely to travel to work by bike in the UK, for example, a demographic key to city vibrancy and prosperity.

There are many examples of successful cities that have implemented policies and invested in infrastructure to accommodate this shift in travel. The Copenhagenize Index tracks and ranks cities across the world for bicycle-friendliness using measures such as availability of infrastructure alongside the intensity of political/cultural advocacy for biking. Business hubs such as Amsterdam or Copenhagen in Europe, Tokyo or Taipei in Asia, and Vancouver or Montreal in North America do particularly well in these rankings. These cities excel at creating bike friendly lanes, safe road crossings, and cycle specific paths from neighbourhoods to offices and retail.

As companies and cities alike continue to compete for the best talent, especially among younger generations, ensuring that biking remains a viable mode of transportation through the development of office amenities and city planning for both commuting and lifestyle will be an important consideration.

Further information

Contact Connor Chilton

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