Strategy Behind the Standard
Crossings and Junctions can be the key to opening areas and routes to cycling, but they are also where most conflicts occur, and the actual and perceived hazards are greatest.
Cycle crossings are mid-link stand-alone facilities to enable cyclists to safely cross a carriageway that would otherwise form a hazardous or impenetrable barrier on the cycle route network. Crossings may also form part of junction treatments where cyclists are taken off the carriageway. They may be used to connect off-highway cycle routes across a major road and enable connections with quieter street networks via cycle-only access points.
Crossings can be divided into the following types:
- Uncontrolled Crossings: With or without refuge.
- Controlled Crossings: Cycle priority crossing using give-way markings, Parallel crossings, Signal controlled, Toucan, Sparrow and Cycle Signal Crossings.
- Grade Separated crossings and junctions
Best Practice Guidance to be used by Essex Highways
Cycle Infrastructure Design LTN 1/20 – Chapter 10.4
Cycle Infrastructure Design LTN 1/20 – Chapter 10.8
How the Standard Should be Applied in Essex
The table below provides an indication of the suitability of each type of crossing, depending on the speed and volume of traffic and the number of lanes to be crossed in one movement.
In Essex, its is seen that provision that is not suitable for all people (yellow in the table below) is not inclusive, and so should not be considered. Crossings which are suitable for most people (green in the table below) should only be what is considered for new infrastructure which is being added to the network.
Individual locations should also be assessed on a case-by-case basis. In many situations, reducing the speed of motor traffic using the carriageway will enable additional options for the crossing design to be considered.
Examples of Best Practice in Essex
Parallel Crossing, Victoria Rd. South, Chelmsford
Other Examples of Best Practice
CYCLOPS junction, Manchester
LTN 1/20 Compliant staggered pedestrian toucan crossing, Gloucestershire