Cluster Analysis of Daily Cycling Flow Profiles during COVID-19 Lockdown in the UK

The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting government-enforced lockdown affected the travel behavior lives of people worldwide. In this research, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) is used to quantify impact on daily flow profiles cyclists due public’s response different levels restrictions during a 6-month period in 2020. An inductive loop network Tyne Wear, UK provided cycle data from 25 sites. A paired sample t-test was carried out between “Pre-COVID-19” baseline year 2020 determine how cycling volumes changed at each site. HCA then performed diurnal hourly observe they within same time period. Finally, relationship profile volume assessed. Overall study area increased by 38% lockdown. highest increases were found coastal sites, with more modest suburban areas reduced city center locations. revealed that locations associated noncommuting-shaped flows witnessed largest while commuting saw decrease. As eased, began revert back prepandemic norm but never fully returned levels. adoption working home postpandemic will change behavior. conclusions drawn suggest consideration noncommuting trips should be made when planning design location future schemes, can assist decision-making process as method changes cycling.