A Champion for Cycling Steps Down: What Does This Mean for Haringey’s Future?
The Haringey Cycling Campaign is reeling from an unexpected start to the year as Cllr Mike Hakata, a staunch advocate for sustainable transport, announced his resignation in January. But here’s where it gets emotional: Mike wasn’t just a politician; he was a beacon of hope for cyclists and environmentalists alike, proving that someone in power could truly listen and act. His departure leaves a void that feels almost as significant as the gaps in our borough’s cycling infrastructure—okay, maybe not that big, but you get the point!
For the past four years, Mike served as the cabinet member for the environment, transport, and climate action, and his tenure as a local councillor spans even longer. His hands-on approach—cycling everywhere, joining group rides, and delivering heartfelt speeches—made him more than a figurehead. He was one of us. And this is the part most people miss: Mike’s ability to connect with residents and campaigners made us feel heard, a rare and invaluable trait in leadership. Without that connection, advocacy can feel like shouting into an empty void, leaving you on the brink of giving up.
Carla Francome, a cycle campaigner and patron of the London Cycling Campaign, sums it up: “With Mike stepping down, cyclists have lost a true supporter.” His impact was palpable, as evidenced by a Friends of the Earth rally where his handwritten speech moved an entire crowd to tears. That’s the power of authenticity—something Mike brought to the council’s top table in spades.
In his resignation letter, Mike reflected on his time representing Haringey, calling it “the privilege of my life.” He highlighted transformative changes during his tenure: the borough’s School Streets program expanded from 2 to 36, and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods now serve 55,000 residents with reduced traffic. But here’s where it gets controversial: While these achievements are celebrated, the question remains—will the next leader carry this momentum forward, or will progress stall?**
Mike’s letter also teased something intriguing: “We’ve developed designs for a network of high-quality cycle lanes… The groundwork is there for whoever chooses to build on it.” This raises a critical point: alignment between residents and politicians is key to driving change. When constituents email their councillors demanding safe cycling routes, and a cabinet member echoes that need, progress becomes inevitable. But is this alignment guaranteed moving forward?
With local elections on the horizon, the Haringey Cycling Campaign is urging all party leaders to commit to a safe, connected cycle network in their manifestos. Our goal? To ensure these plans—or a version of them—become reality. But here’s the question we’re asking you: Do you think the next council will prioritize cycling infrastructure? Or will Mike’s legacy remain just that—a legacy? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts and continue this vital conversation.
