Introduction to cycle tracks and cycle lanes
Cycle tracks and cycle lanes accommodate cycle routes within the highway. They may include light segregation or full segregation.
Segregated cycle tracks
With correct interventions, segregated cycle tracks ensure that the cycle network along busy roads is accessible to everyone, providing direct routes to key destinations.
Fully kerbed cycle tracks
Fully kerbed cycle tracks may be set at:
- carriageway level
- footway level
- an intermediate height between the two
Fully kerbed cycle tracks can be one-way cycle tracks, which are provided on both sides of the road in the direction of the other traffic or two-way cycle tracks, which are usually provided only on one side of the road.
There are some problems associated with two-way cycle tracks. These are explored in paragraph 6.2.16 of Cycle Infrastructure Design (LTN 1/20). Most problems can be addressed by providing one-way cycle tracks on both sides of the road.
Stepped cycle tracks will only be on both sides of the road.
Cycle lanes
Cycle lanes are areas of the carriageway reserved for the use of pedal cycles. Cycle lanes are part of the carriageway so do not offer physical protection for cyclists unless fitted with additional physical protection features. Therefore, their use is only appropriate in traffic conditions with lower speeds and volume of traffic.
Where cycle lanes are provided, mandatory lanes are preferred as they offer greater legal protection.
Light segregation between a cycle lane and the carriageway, such as traffic wands, can provide additional protection from motor traffic. Care must be taken on the siting of these features, so they do not cause a hazard to other road users.
Road conditions and surfaces should be maintained. Routes should use machine laid asphalt or smooth and firm blocks that will be undisturbed by turning vehicles. Routes that form part of the highway should be included within the local authority highway maintenance regimes for cleansing and repair.
Cycle routes should be as flat as possible. Gradients below 3% are best. Route selection may need to balance directness with avoiding steep gradients.
Routes should avoid:
- non cycle friendly ironworks
- drainage covers and manholes
- potholes
- loose and cracked surfaces
- poor drainage
- sharp gradients
- overgrown vegetation
Drainage issues with cycle tracks can be resolved by rain gardens and sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) enabled street trees.
Where cycle tracks and cycle lanes are adjacent to a parking or loading facility, a buffer of at least 0.5m should be provided to minimise the likelihood of ‘dooring’ conflicts.
