Cyclists allowed to break one-way rules in a dozen Brighton streets
Twelve one-way streets in the North Laine area of Brighton are to be opened up for cycling in both directions.
The move follows a decision taken by Brighton and Hove City Council’s cabinet member for transport and the public realm Councillor Ian Davey.
Thirty six letters were received in support of the proposals in response to the traffic regulation order published last month – and seven objections.
The council said that it put forward the proposals in response to concerns from local residents and businesses.
The move is intended to discourage cycling on pavements and twittens, increase the city’s cycle network and encourage more cycling.
Councillor Davey said: “This is designed to make the area easier for people to move around.
“It will address issues raised by local residents and businesses about cyclists who use pavements and twittens by permitting people to cycle legally on the street.
“We will continue to work with the local community as the changes are rolled out. The council will be taking into consideration the views of the people who live and work in the North Laine when designing the contraflow so that it is safe and works well.”
Work will begin immediately and the council will meet with residents three months after the scheme has been completed to discuss how it is working and resolve any practical issues. There will also be an independent road safety audit.
The council said that contraflow cycling already takes place in one-way streets in other parts of the country, including London and Cambridge, and elsewhere in Europe.
Two-way cycling is also already allowed in some one-waystreets in Brighton and Hove, including Church Street, Jubilee Street and New Road in the North Laine.
The streets covered by the latest decision are
- Church Street (part of this street already has contraflow cycling)
- Foundry Street
- Gloucester Road
- Gloucester Street (part of the street)
- Kemp Street
- Kensington Place
- Kensington Place
- Over Street
- Queen’s Gardens
- Robert Street
- Tidy Street
- Trafalgar Street
All currently have 20mph speed limits, the council said, adding: “Signs and road markings will be used to ensure cyclists and other road users share the streets safely.”
The council discussed the proposal with the North Laine Community Association and North Laine Traders Association as part of the consultation process. Some members raised safety concerns.
