Latest addition to portal provides potential for app development to support cyclists
Transport for London (TfL) has opened up a new open data source for mapping information on cycling in the city.
The organisation, which has been one of the leaders in making its data freely available for re-use, said that app developers will be able to use the information on its Cycle Superhighways and Quietway through its open data portal. Data on new routes will be added as they open.
This should enable developers to map out the existing networks within apps and on websites, and can be combined with previously released data, such as the location of cycle parking and availability of bikes from docking stations for London’s hire bikes, to help cyclists plan their routes.
Will Norman, London's walking and cycling commissioner, said: “Millions of Londoners use apps to navigate around our city every day, and by ensuring this cycling data is available to developers, we can make a big difference to the way journeys are planned.
“By knowing where the infrastructure is and when new parts are opened, cyclists can pick the best route for them, rather than simply following the way they would go by car or bus. It's yet another way we are working to make cycling even easier for all Londoners.”
TfL said there are now more than 600 apps powered by its data. It has been very active in adding feeds to its open data portal, with initiatives last year including the provision of data on the London Trams network, historical crowding at Underground stations and road closures for the London Marathon. It also extended its APIs to include data on the Night Tube service.
Image by Tejvan Pettinger, CC BY 2.0 through flickr
