UK Cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians need roads with them in mind

Cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians would prefer improvements on Highways England's (HE's) road network to be open to all types of user – but safely, with areas of greater risk identified and appropriate interventions made, according to a new report from Transport Focus (TF). The independent watchdog engaged with these road users across the UK who stressed the importance of the network in affecting their everyday lives. Key findings showed that safety is of crucial importance to all three groups when
January 12, 2018 Read time: 2 mins

Cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians would prefer improvements on 8101 Highways England's (HE's) road network to be open to all types of user – but safely, with areas of greater risk identified and appropriate interventions made, according to a new report from Transport Focus (TF). The independent watchdog engaged with these road users across the UK who stressed the importance of the network in affecting their everyday lives.

Key findings showed that safety is of crucial importance to all three groups when interacting with the network; whether crossing or travelling along it. Research on its usage indicates that 5% of those who cycle regularly, and 14% of those who walk, will go on, next to, or across motorways or major A roads when they do these activities. The primary concern for pedestrians was on the lack of footpaths, especially in more rural areas. In addition, these users have also stated that they are willing to take part in further research into their needs and concerns.

TF will now carry out a new survey to measure the level of satisfaction with journeys among cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians, which will be piloted in two areas of the UK later this year. It is based on the report’s conclusion that are enough cyclists and pedestrians that use the network to make a quantitative satisfaction survey feasible. The views of equestrians can be gathered qualitatively due to their small numbers.

These road users are from Dover, Manchester, Newcastle, Shoreham, York, Didcot, Lowestoft and Hastings.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of TF, said: “Our new survey will help improve understanding cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians’ priorities and make sure England’s major roads are not a barrier to their journeys. This insight should help Highways England and the Government to focus investment and effort on things that make a real difference for these road users”, Smith added.

A copy of the report can be found %$Linker: 2 External <?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-16"?><dictionary /> 0 0 0 link-external here Transport Focus website link false https://www.transportfocus.org.uk/research-publications/publications/cyclists-pedestrians-equestrians-measuring-satisfaction-highways-englands-network/ false false%>.

Urban Traffic Control

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • US parking tools refreshed
    March 9, 2018
    The US Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and National Parking Association have agreed to work together on updating their respective Parking Generation Manual and Shared Parking tools, last revised in 2010 and 2009. Fresh analyses in the former will differentiate levels of demand in rural, general urban/suburban, dense multi-use urban and core city centre locations, said ITE CEO Jeffrey F Paniati
    Read More
  • CILT urges policy review for London Mayor’s transport strategy
    October 4, 2017
    The Mayor of London’s Draft Transport Strategy (DMTS) lacks realism and risks unintended consequences, according to a report from the Charted Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). Proposals on bus priority require a fundamental review as speeds on a third of London’s bus routes have fallen more than 5% in the past year, including a reallocation of road space, construction works (with resulting congestion) and an increase in the volume of private hire and van traffic. CILT calls for bus corridors
    Read More
  • Copenhagen light rail JV appointed
    February 13, 2015
    Copenhagen metro operator Metroselkabet has appointed Arup as part of a joint venture with Rambøll to develop the light rail on ring 3 for greater Copenhagen. The new light rail system includes a double track alignment of 27 kilometres and 27 stations with a rolling stock fleet of 27 light rail vehicles. This major project was planned to promote the use of public transport as well as encourage the urban development along the route and the passage across the city to avoid interchanging in the centre.
    Read More
  • Vaisala introduces road weather management software
    March 10, 2014
    Vaisala, a leader in the measurement and decision support of a vast variety of weather technologies, will use its position as a leader in road weather ITS sensors, decision support tools, and consultation, to highlight not just equipment but software systems. As the company points out, managing decisions around road weather is as important as the sensors and systems, and can be easier with Vaisala RoadDSS Manager software. Manager helps with reporting, communication, and simplifies the information needed to
    Read More

Highlighted Content