Camden cycle-safety measures aim for air quality improvements

Measures to make cyclists safe from vehicle movements installed in Camden to encourage cyclists

Camden council has installed a series of cycle friendly measures on one of its main roads linking Kentish Town to Kings Cross, in a bid to help improve air quality and reduce congestion in the borough.

Cycle-friendly measures have been installed at Royal College Street in Camden

Two metre-wide tracks have been installed on Royal College Street, which are surrounded by a series of robust planters to keep traffic and cyclists separate.

Round rubber blocks, nicknamed ‘armadillos’ have also been installed — which are screwed into the road surface in order to prevent vehicles parking and keep the cycle lanes clear.

Junctions on the street have also been changed to encourage motorists to reduce their speed and give way to pedestrians and cyclists.

Councillor Phil Jones, Camden’s cabinet member for sustainability, transport and planning, said: “Here in Camden we have seen a significant increase in the number of people who are choosing to cycle, with a 70% rise over the last six years.

“By continuing to lead the way and provide pioneering schemes for cyclists, it means we are also able to work towards reducing congestion, improving air quality and promoting healthy lifestyles for our residents.

“I look forward to Royal College Street being another key step in the creation of a safer cycle network across the borough.”

Extension

Camden council has plans to extend the measures to other streets in the borough and a consultation on the proposals is due to start in January.

Charlie Lloyd from London Cycling Campaign, said: “London Cycling Campaign is very pleased with Camden council’s innovative approach to greatly improve the cycle tracks on Royal College Street.

“They are to be commended for resolving problems of the narrow two-way track by reducing road space for motor traffic to provide two metre cycle tracks in each direction at the same time as improving the environment for pedestrians.

“The improvements were well delivered in record speed and the council has done well to get Department for Transport agreement for this radical design, well suited to the location and volume of traffic.”