The plans include segregated tracks that will be modelled on a style similar to those in Amsterdam and a network of “Quietways”, signposted routes that will run into the suburbs of London to give people a more peaceful cycling example.

Mr Johnson said, “The reason I am spending almost £1 billion on this is my belief that helping cycling will not just help cyclists. It will create better places for everyone. It means less traffic, more trees, more places to sit and eat a sandwich.”

The tracks which will run through some of the busiest parts of the city including the Victoria embankment and Canary Wharf, will be introduced over the next four years and run parallel to Tube and bus routes.