'Mini-Holland' schemes have proved their worth in outer London boroughs | Peter Walker

First formal study into their impact finds that boroughs with the schemes have boosted walking and cycling rates

The so-called mini-Holland schemes - much-debated changes to boost cycling and walking in outer London boroughs - have done precisely that, according to the first formal study into their impact.

The research found that after one year, people living in parts of such boroughs were, on average, walking and cycling for 41 minutes a week more than those living in comparable areas.