Delivery vehicles obstructing cycle routes
Delivery vehicles in Cambridge frequently obstruct cycle routes. I suggest we use this issue to keep track of the offenders (companies and locations) with separate threads for each location.
This section lists issues - problems on the street network and related matters.
Issues always relate to some geographical location, whether very local or perhaps city-wide.
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Listed issues, most recent first:
Created by Monica Frisch // 4 threads
Delivery vehicles in Cambridge frequently obstruct cycle routes. I suggest we use this issue to keep track of the offenders (companies and locations) with separate threads for each location.
Created by JonathanF // 1 thread
Place-holder for Corridor Cycleway Section 7 discussions
Created by David Earl // 1 thread
Planning application in this week's list for rebuilding the derelict shops on the south-west corner of the Perne Road roundabout (these have their own layby off the roundabout.
Created by Eric Booth // 0 threads
Cycle path is broken up by cars coming off the dual carriageway into the hotel (before a barrier). So a cyclist not only has to stop, but then turn around and look behind them for cars careening off the dual carriageway into the hotel.
Raised on CTC Infrastructure map http://www.ctc.org.uk/campaign/space-for-cycling/cycling-infrastructure/filton-holiday-express-inn
Approaching from the South, there is cycle only access across Handford Road to continue North along Portman Road (shown in the photo) which allows access, amongst other things, to the new crossing of Norwich Road at Barrack Corner.
However, the lights allow motor traffic to turn left or right (not straight on) on a green signal which creates significant risk of conflict and left-hooks for cycles going straight on.
Unless cyclists take a strong position at the junction in the centre of the lane there is a risk of left-hooks from cars turning left.
This is made worse by the fact that there is a marked cycle lane and ASL which tends to encourage cyclists into a dangerous position at the left hand side of the road.
It is possible to avoid this by leaving Portman Road and using the Toucan crossing to cross Handford Road, but this isn't mandatory for cycles and the "No Entry except Cycles" signage suggests that using the on-road route is the most obvious option.
This issue could be partially resolved by an advance "cycle only" filter phase on the traffic lights, but other than that I can't see any more effective solution than a sign which makes it clear how the road layout works (i.e. that cars may turn left or right, but that cycles may be proceeding straight on).
Created by charlie_lcc // 10 threads
A section by section discussion list for recording comments on the current 2014 consultation draft of the London Cycle Design Standards - LCDS
Created by charlie_lcc // 5 threads
The London Cycle Safety Action Plan 2 (CSAP2) draft is out for consultation. Deadline 25th July 2014
https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/cycling/draft-safety-action-plan
Since the changes to Mare St at Westgate St some vehicles travel past the children's centre in Triangle Road, at excessive speeds, to avoid the traffic light at Mare St . Can Hackney Council add a restriction in Triangle Road.
Created by Richard Moss // 1 thread
The Over to Longstanton road is to be closed from 30 June 2014 for 9 weeks for reconstruction of Gravel Bridge.
Created by Paul L // 3 threads
Richmond Council say
"a signalised PUFFIN crossing with pedestrian countdown outside number 182 Kew Road (previously outside 180) Footway widening both sides of Kew Road. We have attempted to minimise the impact on the cycle lanes by introducing long tapers and following existing extended footways where possible. The kerb widening is essential to ensure sightlines to the signal heads past the many street trees."
We suggested cranked supports for the signals to avoid the loss of cycle lanes but they claim TFL disapproval.
Created by timlennon // 1 thread
Text of message from TfL:
All,
We are proposing to convert the current dual PUFFIN crossing at the above location to a dual TOUCAN crossing, formalising the facility for cyclists.
The initial design is attached, which includes localised resurfacing of footways and some carriageway works. A lighting assessment has also been undertaken which recommends a full lantern replacement of the columns retaining all lighting columns once structural testing has been completed and passed.
We also propose to extend the shared use footway further north on Marksbury Avenue and further south on Manor Grove to enable safer entry/exits for cyclists to the TOUCAN crossing.
The impact (if any) is currently being determined by Traffic Signals.
If you have any comments or suggestions, please let me have these by cop Friday 27th June.
Created by londoncycler // 1 thread
On the south (Southwark) side of the bridge just before the central section there is a very prominent ridge approximately one metre away from the kerb and running parallel to the bridge for some 30 metres. It is located exactly in the path of cyclists crossing the bridge who can be knocked off as they cross the ridge in either direction. In the dark and in the wet the ridge is very hard to see and cyclists may not see the ridge. The fault has been reported repeatedly in the course of more than 2 years to the local highway authority but no action has been taken. Can the highway authority explain why the ridge has not been removed?
Created by David Earl // 1 thread
The DfT have written to us with a proposed TRO to replace the sliproad from westbound A14 at Girton to southbound M11. This is also part of the widening scheme between Histon and Girton, but this aspect requires an order to give the lane motorway status. The main effect seems to be to lengthen the A14 part of the slip road to reduce queues on the main A14.
I don't think anything particular needs doing with this, so I don't plan to scan the correspondence, but if anyone wants if, please ask.
Preferred route to be signed as an alternative to Chilwell High Road agreed between City, Broxtowe and County Councils.
Created by MJR // 2 threads
Some of (the last of?) the s106 money from two out-of-town big box supermarkets is being used to remodel the connections between the bus and rail stations. National Route 1 runs through this area and the bus station may also be Lynn's biggest cycle park, so there's quite a lot of potential for this to do good - or to do harm.
Created by Charlie Halliday // 1 thread
Notices have recently been put up by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on the section of the Blackwater Valley Path which passes through Hollybush Lakes near North Camp station.
Although there is a legal agreement to use this stretch as a footpath, there has never been one to permit cycling there and the owner is quite within his rights.
This is not a historic route, there is no sign of it on my 1956 OS map.
The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership is trying to resolve this but the cycling route may have to be diverted.
Area Committees are a joint meeting attended by both city and county councillors. They decide on planning issues in the area, but also have a role in the allocation of community development money from S106 contributions. They offer an opportunity to engage with multiple councillors at once, through the Open Forum section and speaking on specific Agenda items. The East Area's website is here: https://www.cambridge.gov.uk/west-central-area-committee
Speaking at these meetings is a good way of making your feelings on matters the councils control public
As discussed between local cycling organisations there is a desperate need for a signed route which avoids Chilwell High Road where there have been a number of accidents now tram tracks are laid in places. This route also avoids Beeston High St which is a lengthy dismount section from 9-5. This route supersedes the previous northerly route. A southern avoiding route has also been plotted on cyclescape
Created by Jean Dollimore // 1 thread
The proposals seek to improve road safety on the streets surrounding Regents High school in Somers Town which is being rebuilt. This school is labelled "South Camden Community School" on the map.
The consultation is on Camden's website at:
Currently the school is accessed from Charrington Street but the new building is going to face the other way and will be accessed via Chalton Street. Therefore most of the proposal are related to making a new school entrance and building out the footways in Chalton Street while taking them away in Charrington Street. All of this is clearly necessary, but doesn't appear to add to road safety.
The council also proposes a new speed table at the junction of Chalton Street and Aldenham Street. This would help with road safety.
Cyclists are already concerned with the rat-running on Ossulston Street; this quite likely accesses Eversholt Street via Chalton Street. Surely we should ask for this rat running to be prevented both for the safety of the cycle route and for children going to Regents High School?
Created by Peter Loader // 0 threads
The Maple Cross to Rickmansworth cycle route is one-way along Berry Lane (between Church Lane and Field Way, Mill End).
Anon // 0 threads
There is currently no secure locks provided at Port Rodie bus stop, the main departure stop for buses eastwards towards Dumfries and Carlisle.
There is a very poor road surface on the left hand northbound lane of Stockport Road (A6) after the Plymouth Grove junction.
This is dangerous as if you bear left it encourages traffic behind you to sneak past you, if you go through it can damage your bicycle or even cause you to come off, if you bear right brings you into direct conflict with traffic which often wants to merge into the right hand lane.
The solution is very simple, resurface this small section of road.
Created by Peter Loader // 0 threads
Transport Initiatives LLP is an independent transport planning consultancy. They have carried out an audit for Three Rivers District Council classifying roads, paths and crossings in terms of the UK National Cycle Training Standard (Bikeability) Level needed to be able to ride in comparative safety. The results can be seen on Three Rivers District Council's web site.
Transport Initiatives have classified the roundabout at M25 Junction 17, the adjacent Maple Cross Roundabout, and the dual carriageway between them as Level 3.5, i.e. "Roads & crossings with a very high level of risk, unsuitable for even highly experienced cyclists".
For detailed documentation, please see
http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/Default.aspx/Web/CyclingInformation
and download
Maps by area|Maple Cross
plus
Cycling safety audit|CSNA Leaflet
Following closely the route of an old railway line between Colchester and Brightlingsea this proposed route would link Colchester to Walton-on-the-Naze. It provides a much needed commuter route out of Brightlingsea linking it safely to Wivenhoe, the University of Essex and Colchester and creates a new leisure route in a holiday district. It builds on the existing four mile NCN51 route from Colchester to Wivenhoe by adding 5 miles off-road to Brightlingsea via a new river crossing at Alresford Creek. From there it utilises an existing pleasant frequent summer ferry crossing to Point Clear and creates a 25 mile coastal route much of it off-road.
Created by Gary // 0 threads
To improve safety after numerous fatal car accidents the Highways Agency are currently implementing speed restrictions but are also designing a new roundabout for the A120 near Pellens Corner/Horsley Cross. NCN51 passes nearby. Cyclists don't generally want to cycle the A120 but we do have to cross it to get across Tendring District. Roundabouts are particular hard for cyclists to use on A roads. So will the Highways Agency proposal include the needs of cyclists? http://www.highways.gov.uk/roads/road-projects/A120-Pellens-Corner-Average-Speed-CamerasSafety-Improvements
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Created by SallyEva // 2 threads
Mina Road would be no entry, apart from cyclists, from the junction with Ivy Church Lane. This will prevent northbound traffic entering from Mina Road onto B203 Dunton Road, to prevent stopping on the hatch markings at the junction with the A2 Old Kent Road. This movement can cause congestion and a road safety risk to all users.
Motor vehicles would not be able to use Bagshot Street and Mina Road for access onto the A2 Old Kent Road. The scheme would improve conditions and safety for local residents and cyclists. The reduced amount of traffic will create a safer environment.
Road users who normally would use Mina Road to access the A2 Old Kent Road would need to use Bagshot Street, Albany Road and Shorncliffe Road. The parking and loading bays on the northern side section of Mina Road would remain unchanged.
Created by Heather Coleman // 1 thread
I've noticed a few of these around Cambridge where there's a "no through road" sign but it's a through road for cyclists and pedestrians. As there's a post already, if the council had a ready-made stock of plates saying "except cycles", "except pedestrians", a single operative could affix the plate below the sign to made it correct. It is highly deceptive and not serving those using non-motorised transport if they go the long way round not realising they can get through a quicker route.
Created by Gregory Williams // 0 threads
Much of the route of the former Elham Valley Railway has not been constructed on. This would make an ideal long-distance cycle path.
Created by Donald Noble // 0 threads
It would be useful to have signage at this location to show the route onto the cycle path. Coming north along Lochend Road from the A8/Airport it is not clear that you need to head into the treatment works access road to see the path leading onto the main cycle path.
Created by M Stanley // 1 thread
Leeds City Council are proposing major changes to the gyratory. The stated aim is to increase motor vehicle capacity at the junction which will in turn allow the removal of general motor traffic from areas of the city centre such as city square.
Created by Jon G // 1 thread
The road outside the Barmy Arms pub, Twickenham Embankment, used to be closed to motor traffic by a single line of posts with cycle logos painted on the road between two of these, clearly showing there is a cycle route there.
Recently this has been replaced with two lines of posts about 3m apart and there are no cycle route markers. This is leading pedestrians to reasonably assume that the area between the posts is for pedestrians only and to stand there in groups with drinks from the pub, creating conflicts with cyclists trying to ride through the area. The existence of the cycle route should once again be indicated by signs or painted cycle symbols.
Created by David Earl // 1 thread
It is intimidating to use this roundabout because of the high shrubbery in the middle. It is supposed to slow traffic down but my subjective feeling is that it doesn't
Anon // 1 thread
Wandsworth Council in TMO 1644 propose removing the contra-flow segregated cycle track at the eastern end of Putney Embankment to allow a hoarding to be built around the Thames Tideway tunnel construction site. The track will be re-opened when the work is complete, but this could take at least a year. It is proposed that eastbound cyclists join the Upper Richmond road by the Dukes Head pub and then continue on this road. Wandsworth Cycling Campaign objected to this on the grounds that the Upper Richmond Road is extremely heavily trafficked and the proposed diversion involved cycling past a row pf parking bays . This would be very difficult and hazardous for the mix of cyclists using the Thames Path of which this forms part. We asked that the parking bays be temporarily removed and replaced by a 1.5 to 2 m cycle lane separated from the motor traffic by wands or similar. For west-bound cyclists using the narrow lane left on Putney Embankment past the work site, we asked for the installation of 'Do not overtake cyclists' signs.
Created by Caroline Page // 1 thread
Significant domestic car parking in the advisory cycle lane of westbound lane combines with heavy traffic jams to obstruct/block westbound passage to cyclists in rush hour. Generally there is a section of this route where pavement pushing is unavoidable
Created by Angela Dyer // 1 thread
Proper surface on the link from Butterfield Lane to Holyrood Crescent
Created by jpennycook // 1 thread
Just to the south of the junction with Sullivan Road, there is a low hanging branch at decapitation height. It is hard to see at night.
Created by TMiles // 0 threads
A short section of cycle path allows cyclists to skirt around the traffic lights when turning left from Westgate into Oxford Place.
However the section ends abruptly in front of on-street car parking and the cyclist is forced to give way to other traffic in order to join Oxford Place.
It should instead lead smoothly into a cycle lane that runs the whole length of this street.
Created by Gipsy Hill // 2 threads
Introduction:
Quietway7 links a cycle route from Elephant & Castle (E&C) with Crystal Palace, and was routed by TfL to be via Dulwich Village, West Norwood (Thurlow Park Road), Gipsy Hill and then Crystal Palace (via Farquhar Road).
The route from E&C southbound is in Southwark (to Dulwich) then is in Lambeth (Turney Road, Rosendale Road/Thurlow Park Road, Hamilton Road, to Gipsy Hill), then goes back into Southwark (from Gipsy Hill to Crystal Palace). Southwark had their part of the quietway consultation approved.
Lambeth delayed their decision to June 2017, and was then subsequently “called in” as there was widespread concerns from both the local community and cycling groups for parts of the route. Cycling groups unanimously objected to the proposed design along Gipsy Hill by: Southwark Cyclists, Lambeth Cyclists and Wheels for Wellbeing. 70% of respondents objected to the the design on Gipsy Hill. Gipsy Hill is a busy Local Distributor Road and bus route. Gipsy Hill has “insufficient road width” for a segregated track. The original proposed design meant motor vehicles “will encroach on the advisory cycle lane” to allow oncoming motor vehicles to pass.
Gipsy Hill Options:
There are alterative options to avoid Gipsy Hill. Southwark Cyclists have supported the design option to follow LCN23 downhill all the way along Dulwich Wood Avenue and then using the other side of Long Meadow (so not using Gipsy Hill), with a new track behind the bus stop.
See navy dashed line on sketch attached (mauve was the proposed Q7 design, red is LCN23)
This design is quieter and safer than using Gipsy Hill, and avoids the proposed dangerous junction Gipsy Hill/ Dulwich Wood Avenue, near the rail station. This integrated design also allows greatest cycle access to local amenities, schools, shops, and parks in Dulwich, West Dulwich and West Norwood. There is interest and outline support from Southwark to explore this option.
Next Steps:
Lambeth are now actively progressing engagement and revised designs for their part of the route, with a new consultation process due in September. There is potential for an improved option at Gipsy Hill, but this is likely to need new additional funding from TfL.
Suggested, to let local Gipsy Hill Ward Cllrs (Lambeth) and College Ward Cllrs (Southwark) and local cycling groups know your views.
Background:
Lambeth proposal that was called-in, see reports:
- Quietway 7 - Elephand Castle to Crystal Palace - Decision Report – 12 June 2017
- Appendix B - Quietway 7 - details designs (Gipsy Hill pages: 23, 46-49)
http://www.cpneighbours.org/gipsyhillquietway/
Thurlow Park Ward Cllr updates:
http://thurlowparklabour.org/post/162548844962/quietways-engagement-next-steps
TfL Quietway 7 Programme (Elephant & Castle to Crystal Palace) - Proposed changes in Lambeth - West Dulwich area
https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/cycling/lambeth-q7-wd/
LCN23 Map:
https://www.openstreetmap.org/relation/2707#map=17/51.42643/-0.08336
What are Quietway?
London Cycling Design Standards, Chapter 1 (page 15):
Quietways “..are aimed at new cyclists who want a safe, unthreatening experience.” The key principles for Quietways include:
o Routes should be on the quietest available roads consistent with directness;
o Routes should be as straight and direct as possible;
o where they have to join busier roads, or pass through busy, complicated junctions, segregation must be provided;
http://content.tfl.gov.uk/lcds-chapter1-designrequirements.pdf
Created by Anna Langley // 2 threads
This intersection needs a right turn light for bikes turning from St Andrew's Street into the Downing Street contraflow lane.
Doing so feels unsafe with buses coming up from behind, and little opportunity to get across the intersection.
I'm considering setting up a 38 Degrees petition on the matter, but wanted to see if this issue had been campaigned on before.
Hungate Bridge at the Navigation Road end is heavily bollarded on one end people on bikes and variants and people on foot are forced into a narrowed corridor by bollards. Yet, the width of he route is not restricted on either side.
It is unnatural and unnecessary. It brings people on bikes and variants into contact with each other and with people on foot or in wheelchairs, etc. It seems to be 'traffic-calming'. To my mind this undermines active travel messages and initiatives by making movement more complicated and fraught for all users.
Created by John Metcalf // 1 thread
"Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) has recently undertaken a feasibility report to investigate cycle links to the new Verulamium Park (Ver Park) Route link to NCN 6 from the King Harry Lane area. We have looked at ways to improve the cycling and walking environment; particularly where this would improve the continuity of cycle routes and the movement of people via active modes around your area. A section of shared use cycle route has been recently provided by the developer Linden Homes and the intention is to extend this facility to Abbey Avenue and northwards towards The Ramparts via an upgraded traffic signal crossing point into Verulamium Park.
The proposals include the following:
· Upgrade the existing traffic signal controlled crossing near Verulamium Park access to a Toucan Crossing,
· To provide improvements to the footway areas on both sides of the traffic signal controlled crossing to make it both suitable for pedestrians and cyclists, and linking into the new section of shared use footway/ cycleway that the developer has recently provided.
· To the south of the new roundabout, on the western side, the existing footway will be widened from 0.9-1.1m to 2.5m to continue the shared use route towards Abbey Avenue.
To upgrade the existing uncontrolled crossing at King Harry Lane jw Abbey Avenue by increasing the widths of the existing pedestrian refuge to widths that can accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians.
This option has been carefully evaluated and full consideration has been given to the likely effects that it may have on residents.
Please find attached a plan which shows details of the proposed scheme for Ver Park Highway Link (Cycleway/ Footway).
At this stage we are intending to implement the proposals during the next financial year, 2014/15.
As such we are now finalising the design and we are interested in hearing your views or any comments you may have regarding the proposals"
Initial comments by John Metcalf
Overall to be welcomed as better than what is there already. But, it could be improved?
1. Traffic entering Abbey Avenue is likely to be going too fast for a safe crossing for those walking or cycling. This is a rat-run to avoid the King Harry roundabouts. Therefore tighten the radii of the junction and make a raised crossing (on a hump). Do we want a Tiger (Zebra for walkers and cyclists) crossing?
2. The crossing of the new roundabout exit into King Harry Park is hazardous. It needs to be upgraded with a humped crossing (and a Tiger?). Is this sufficient or should there also be measures to slow down the traffic entering and leaving King Harry Park.
3. The best solution would be to upgrade the ROW footpath from the toucan crossing of King Harry Lane to Rowlatt Drive
Created by Jack Thurston // 1 thread
Cycle Route 46 from crosses the old stone bridge across the River Usk between Abergavenny and Llanfoist. There are good, safe and direct cycle paths on either side of the bridge, but the bridge itself is very hostile for cycling, and walking. It is on the A4143 and there is heavy often fast traffic most times of the day. The footway is very narrow and only on one side of the bridge. Although short, this is a difficult section to negotiate, especially for inexperienced or young cyclists.
Created by DB // 1 thread
I am cycling on the snakey trail every day, and there is a high risk that somebody falls into the Cherry Hinton Brook one day. The path and bridge is really too narrow and many people are taking it both ways.
Route proposal for the link from Prospect Road/Verulamium Park to the start of the Alban Way.
The route is a shared, wide, pavement with a width around 3 metres- in line with minimum width for a shared route.
Documents are available at http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/planning/Planningpolicy/greenring/hccsiteb.aspx
Please have a look at the thread on this as there are a few point which STACC will bring out, you may want to consider these in your response.
Please return any comments to Clare Martin via phone, email or post.
Please also contact Clare if you have any further queries about the proposed works.
Clare Martin
Project Engineer, Integrated Transport Planning
Highways
Postal Point CHO317
Hertfordshire County Council, Leahoe Annexe, Pegs Lane, Hertford, SG13 8DN
t: 01992 658478 Comnet / Internal: 58478
email: Clare.Martin@hertfordshire.gov.uk
Created by Shaun McDonald // 1 thread
Planning application: http://planningpages.midsuffolk.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=_MSUFF_DCAPR_92778
There are concerns about no or too little improvements for walking and cycling along Paper Mill Lane with the increase in traffic caused by the development.
Created by t1mmyb // 0 threads
This shortcut is technically pedestrians-only, but forms a useful link from the environs of Bath Spa station (Widcombe) to Holloway, a dead-end for motor vehicles and therefore a quiet, if steep, climb to Bear Flat, Wellsway and beyond.
Dropped kerbs, barrier/chicane removal etc. would make this route usable by parents with cycle trailers, people on cargobikes and the like.
It was slated as a piece of work to be done by Bath & NE Somerset, but there's been no news lately.
Created by Alex Jenkins // 1 thread
Following recent engagement on the Liveable Streets programme in the Bow area, we are planning to trial some changes to the road layout. These changes are based on suggestions made by local residents and stakeholders.
This trial will help us understand the effects these changes have on the road network and allow residents and businesses to experience the positive impact reduced traffic has on the local area.
During the trial we will be running several events and activities to take advantage of the reduced number of motor vehicles passing through the Bow area, and encourage local journeys to be made by sustainable modes such as walking and cycling. Keep an eye out for more information on these.
Please note that as a part of our preparation for the trial we have consulted with the emergency services, bus operators and Transport for London to ensure they can deliver their services using the changed road layout.
Created by Guy Hill // 1 thread
If it is not bad enough in a cycle city that the Great Northern Road, the new road to Cambridge's main train station and cycle parking, does not have a segregated and safe cycle paths, the new development is now being proposed which will prevent a segregated cycleway from access to the Station a Devonshire road.
Does anyone agree that there should be a segregated cycle access to the country's largest cycle park?
Created by cobweb // 0 threads
Permission given for 286 homes. Concern was raised in 2010 about the positioning of the 715 cycle parking spaces.
Created by Fraser Stephens // 0 threads
RAISED AT PUBLIC MEETING 10-04-2014
The A4143 heading up towards the Hospital is plenty wide enough for a dedicated cycle path on one side or the other (we suggest the west side). This is often a busy and fast road. (Note this this would also solve the safe cycle access to the climbing wall and softplay.)