People cycle so much in the Netherlands for a number of reasons. One of them is the well-developed cycling infrastructure, with cycle paths separated from main roads and specific signalling systems for cyclists. This makes cycling safe and convenient, encouraging more people to take up this form of transport.

Furthermore, the relatively flat terrain of the Netherlands makes cycling easy and accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Investment in sustainable transport policies and the high cost of owning and maintaining a car also contribute to the popularity of cycling as an alternative mode of transport.

Culturally, cycling is valued in the Netherlands as an efficient and healthy way to get around. These factors combined make the Netherlands one of the countries with the highest rate of bicycle use in the world.

Disappearing with the bicycles

Eliminating bicycles in the Netherlands would be a drastic and controversial move, given the importance of this form of transport in the country’s culture and infrastructure. Cycling is considered an essential part of everyday life for many people in the Netherlands, contributing to health, the environment and urban mobility.

However, if there were a need to reduce cycling for some specific reason, it would be important to consider viable alternatives. This could involve investing in other modes of transport, such as efficient and sustainable public transport, incentives to walk, and urban policies that promote shared use of motor vehicles.

However, it is important to recognize that any significant changes to transportation infrastructure must be carefully planned and consider the needs and preferences of local people.

Simone's protest

Jokinen’s proposal, of course, did not go unchallenged. Among the most notable opponents was Simone van der Meer, a local activist who led a massive protest against Jokinen’s plans. Simone argued passionately that the history and identity of working-class neighborhoods could not be sacrificed for the sake of automobile progress.

Their protest gained national and even international attention, drawing attention to the issue of urban preservation and the prioritization of pedestrian spaces over car traffic. With growing support from the population, including artists, intellectuals and other activists, the Dutch government was pressured to reconsider its plans.

Rather than blindly following Jokinen’s vision, the government began exploring more balanced alternatives that integrated public transport, cycling and green spaces into the urban infrastructure. This change of direction was a landmark in the history of Dutch urban planning, influencing urban policies around the world and establishing the Netherlands as a leader in sustainable urban planning.