DfT approves low-level traffic lights for cyclists

The DfT has authorised the use of new low-level traffic lights for cyclists, following off road trials in which more than 80% of cyclists favoured the system.

Initially the system will be piloted at Bow Roundabout in east London but the DfT is working with TfL to extend it to a further 11 sites in London.

The DfT is also conducting research into whether the lights can be used to provide an “early start” for cyclists at junctions.

Leon Daniels, managing director of surface transport at TfL, said: “Low level cycle signals are common place in certain parts of Europe and we are keen to make them common place in London.

“These new signals, which will be a further improvement to the innovative traffic signals at Bow, will provide cyclists with a better eye-level view as to which stage the traffic signals are at.

“We will work to have these on-street during January 2014, and should the technology prove successful further trials will be carried out across London throughout 2014.”

TfL has also been working closely with the DfT to develop a new junction design that will be used as standard by road planners. This design will include a ‘two-stage’ right turn for cyclists as used in other European countries.

The two-stage right turn saves cyclists from attempting to turn across several lanes of traffic. This ‘turn left to turn right’ idea allows bikes to turn left into a dedicated area in advance of the main traffic before completing the turn by going straight across the junction when the lights next change.

TfL will be launching off-street trials of this new junction early next year.

Click here to read the full DfT news release.