UK‘s first Cycle Optimised Protected Signals junction launched in Manchester
- 16.07.2020
- JessicaMG
- Personal-injury
The UK‘s first Cycle Optimised Protected Signals junction, which segregates pedestrians and cyclists from traffic through an innovative design, has been launched in Manchester.
The Cycle Optimised Protected Signals (CYCLOPS) junction, in Hulme – South Manchester, has been designed to fully separate cyclists from regular traffic, as well as enabling pedestrians to cross the road in fewer stages and with more space to do so.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have said that the new and unique design of the junction has been praised by experts both nationally and internationally. The approach has been adopted in Cambridge and Lancashire in the UK and also in Ottawa, Canada.
Cycling and Walking Commissioner for Greater Manchester, Chris Boardman, said:
“Crossing busy junctions on foot or by bike can be a complicated and scary experience and is often a huge barrier for people travelling by foot or bike, and having to navigate a number of these can make them opt for the car.
“Particularly right now, as we’ve seen cycling trips up by 34% and cycling and walking trips now counting for 33% of all journeys in Greater Manchester, this junction design will make journeys easier and smoother for those doing their bit by cycling and walking, without impacting negatively on any other modes. This design is simply genius and I’m not surprised to see other places already adopting the approach.”
Hugh Potter, Head of Personal Injury here at Potter Rees Dolan and a keen cyclist himself, said of the new CYLOPS junction:
“I had a go on this when I cycled into work on Monday - it was a nice separation from heavy metal tins! Well done Manchester City Council.”
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