Overview
- Active Travel England’s new design guidance advises councils to avoid lane widths between 3.25m and 3.9m because those dimensions most encourage unsafe overtakes of cyclists.
- The document argues that narrower lanes signal there is not enough room to pass safely and prompt cyclists to ride more centrally, while very wide lanes reduce but may not eliminate risky passing.
- Officials stress the guidance is not legally binding, though it is presented as good practice that local authorities are expected to follow.
- Some reports say the recommendations could shape future road schemes and funding decisions, a claim the Department for Transport counters by rejecting talk of a ‘war on motorists.’
- Motoring groups warn narrowing lanes would worsen congestion and impose economic costs, while the guidance builds on 2022 Highway Code advice to leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking at up to 30mph.