The Highway Code - safety for cyclists

11th June 2007

I welcome the decision by the Government to revise the wording of proposed changes to the Highway Code. Cyclists from across Loughborough, and UK-wide lobby groups, had expressed concerns over the impact of new wording regarding the use of cycle lanes and other provisions for cyclists.

The Transport Minister stated, in response to a parliamentary question (see Hansard link below), the Government has agreed to amend the Highway Code – in line with the CTC’s preferred wording – to improve cyclists' safety and to encourage drivers to take more care around vulnerable road users. In total over 40 rules have been changed to the benefit of cyclists.

I am delighted at this outcome for cyclists, as there were clearly problems with the previous wording and the possible implications for cyclists’ safety.

I think this shows that when people voice their concerns and tell their MPs how such changes will affect them, the government do listen and a better solution for everyone can be found.

Most Recent Statement from Transport Minister

Following discussions with CTC, the cyclists' organisation, we have now proposed further changes to both rules 61 and 63, as follows:

61 Cycle Facilities. Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

63 Cycle Lanes. These are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway (see Rule 140). When using a cycle lane, keep within the lane when practicable. When leaving a cycle lane check before pulling out that it is safe to do so and signal your intention clearly to other road users. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

We are currently seeking views from road safety, cycling and walking representative groups on these proposals. Subject to considering their views, we intend to include these revised versions of rules 61 and 63 in the new edition of the Highway Code, which we now expect to issue in September.

1st June 2007

I have listened to the concerns of cyclists this week regarding proposed changes to the Highway Code as it relates to cyclists. The publication of proposed changes to the Highway Code has caused concern among cyclists that the proposed changes will force cyclists to use sometimes inadequate cycle facilities and that the proposal to require cyclists to ride on the left-hand lane on roundabouts will place cyclists in greater danger.

These are genuine concerns and I have taken them up with the Transport Minister in the continuing consultation process.

I have a great deal of sympathy with the points made by cyclists, as I also use a mixture of road, cycle paths and ordinary paths. Wherever I cycle, I do so on the basis of the safest route for me, my children and pedestrians, as well as avoiding motorists. I cycle regularly – at home in and around Quorn, and in Loughborough.

I have made these points to the Transport Minister and will continue to do so, in order that the new Highway Code reflects this sensible approach.