The War on Drivers: UK Roads to Narrow for Cyclists' Safety
A controversial proposal to narrow UK roads has sparked debate among drivers and motoring campaigners. The Department of Transport's new guidance suggests reducing lane widths from 12ft to 10ft 8in to protect cyclists, despite concerns it will worsen traffic congestion.
The suggestion, part of the Government's website's official guidance, aims to address the safety risks associated with current lane dimensions. However, critics argue that this move will only penalize motorists and lead to more traffic jams.
The Department of Transport denies any intention to wage a war on motorists, emphasizing that the new guidance does not impose legally binding standards for road widths. Instead, it focuses on improving road safety and cooperation between drivers and cyclists.
The guidance, issued by Active Travel England (ATE), follows a 2022 update to the Highway Code, which mandates a 5ft gap when overtaking cyclists. The Mail on Sunday reported that the new guidance suggests either narrowing or widening roads to ensure safe overtaking and proper cyclist positioning.
While some advocate for narrower roads to accommodate cyclists, others worry about the economic impact of slowing down traffic. Brian Gregory, policy director at the Alliance of British Drivers, calls the lane narrowing idea 'stupid', arguing it will lead to wasted time and increased costs.
The Department for Transport's spokesperson refutes the notion of legally binding road width standards and highlights recent investments in road maintenance and infrastructure improvements. The debate continues as the guidance is expected to influence future road construction projects, leaving drivers and motoring enthusiasts alike awaiting the outcome.
