Contra-flow cycling (2-way cycling in 1-way streets)
Contra-flow street (Photo:Alasdair Massie)
CTC View (formal statement of CTC's policy):
- One-way systems put cyclists at a disadvantage, making their journeys longer and more stressful. Restoring two-way cycling on one-way streets can significantly improve the safety, convenience and attractiveness of cycling.
- Each local authority should review all its one-way streets, with the aim of progressively converting them either for two-way use (particularly for one-way systems on more major roads), or permitting contra-flow cycling (e.g. on narrower streets), unless it can be demonstrated that there are overriding hazards to the safety of cyclists.
- Contra-flow cycling should be facilitated through appropriate engineering treatments, depending on the traffic volumes, speeds and road widths involved.
- In many cases, e.g. on quieter roads, unsegregated two-way cycling on an unmarked road is an appropriate solution. More heavily trafficked one-way roads should be provided with contra-flow lanes.
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Publication Date:
January 2012