How can cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians feel safer around National Highways roads?

22 March 2023

Transport Focus is calling for better safety measures for cyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians in the East of England.

They told us that the paths provided around the A11, A120 and A47 are often in close proximity to fast moving traffic which makes them feel unsafe. These road users would like to see wider paths with dedicated crossing points as well as increased maintenance to cut back vegetation and clear debris.

Suggestions to improve the experience of cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians on National Highways roads include that it:

• creates more separated paths with barriers for cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians, especially where there’s fast moving traffic
• ensures paths are properly maintained
• provide more joined up routes that don’t end suddenly
• works together with other organisations to improve the experience of cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of Transport Focus said:

“Everyone wants to be able to feel safe. We’ve heard from cyclists using roads they feel unsafe on and pedestrians having to dart across highways.

“By putting in more focus on listening to their needs, National Highways could make a huge difference to cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians. If active travel is to become a realistic option, people need to feel confident in the paths and crossings available to them.”

What they say:

• Anna describes her experiences as a pedestrian on Ketts Trail alongside the A11
• Theresa talks about how she’s found paths as a cyclist and horse rider on Peddars Way
• Jeremy and Chris share their experiences as cyclists getting across and along the A120 in Bradwell and Coggeshall
• Peter talks about how he finds cycling around the Yare viaduct on the A47.

“Often you can be walking quite easily on a route or on one side of the road, and then out of nowhere for some reason this path would just stop.” Pedestrian

“Another day, another ride. This time avoiding the A47 viaduct by cycling through our fine city. I’m not sure what’s worse, the lack of cycle paths in Norwich or a cycle path with 80 mph traffic whizzing past.” Cyclist

“Often when roadworks are carried out nearby, the signage is actually placed in the path [on the Yare viaduct] blocking or narrowing it. On occasion I have had to get round signage by stepping off the path into the carriageway.” Cyclist

 

Notes to editors:

Download report: Cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians in the East of England – what do they want from National Highways?

Press office contact

For further information please contact: Misha MccGwire, senior communications officer, misha.mccgwire@transportfocus.org.uk/0300 123 2170