Council forced to make guide for ‘confusing’ cycling junction
Council bosses have been forced to create a video guide to explain how to use a cycle junction due to its complexity.
The new layout in Cambridge is so confusing that an explainer has been uploaded to YouTube.
The junction – where Histon Road meets Gilbert Road and Warwick Road – is inspired by Dutch intersections where there more cyclists than in the UK.
The “Cycling Optimised Protected Signals” (Cyclops) junction includes four pedestrian islands, four miniature zebra crossings and eight sets of traffic lights for cyclists and pedestrians.
The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) installed the project as part of a £24million road upgrade.
Council bosses hoped to make the area safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers by separating them from one another.
However, there have been six “slight injury” collisions since the junction opened in 2021.
There was also one serious injury in the three years before in the same location as four slight injuries.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Neighbour baffled after landowner blocks him walking on 35inch strip of private landBritons forced to wait for new driving law changes cracking down on unfair traffic finesAldi row with housing developer leaves shoppers forced to take life into own hands
A video produced by the GCP shows people what to do when they approach the junction.
The footage explains that cyclists can turn left at any point or use the buttons for bike-dedicated traffic lights.
Cyclists can use the lights to request a green light to turn right or travel straight without having to cross vehicles.
The video’s narrator says: “The traffic signals have been set up to provide enough time for cyclists to make a full right turn manoeuvre around the junction in one continuous movement.”
She adds: “Cyclists must stop when the cycle-specific signals are red so that they do not conflict with traffic.
“Alternatively, cyclists can choose to stay on the road and follow the route directly ahead.
“Or you can make a left or right turn across the junction, following the road markings.”