Glasgow installs cycle-activated signage to increase safety

cycle-activated electronic signage

Glasgow City Council has installed cycle-activated electronic signage on the road network, designed to reduce incidents of conflict, particularly where travel routes cross side junctions or building entrances.

The pilot project showed a decrease in the percentage of conflicts between drivers and cyclists at the junction of Berkeley Street and Claremont Street. Prompted by cycle movement, they have been installed at multiple locations across the city following a successful pilot.

Safety initiative

The solar-powered LED warning signs illuminate a cycle symbol to alert drivers to the presence of cyclists. The installation of the signage is a key safety initiative that aims to minimise the likelihood of conflict between road users where location constraints can affect sight lines and heighten the potential for drivers to pull out or turn across the path of cyclists.

Drawing on its experience of using smart sensor technology to accurately detect cycle movement, the council explored the possibility of installing cycle-activated electronic signage to increase safety at specific points on the road network.

Part of this development work necessitated securing a dispensation from Transport Scotland to use an electronic variant of the standard Cycle Route Ahead sign, making it the first road sign of its type in the UK.

“We want people to think of cycling as accessible, safe and attractive, and as an everyday transport mode and leisure activity,” said councillor Angus Millar, transport and climate convener. “Creating a safer cycling city is a key element of our Cycling Plan in which we have pledged to improve safety for cyclists by providing better facilities and encouraging mutual respect between all road and path users.

“Our cycle-activated signage project is an innovative and environmentally-friendly solution that seeks to prioritise and protect vulnerable road users and prevent collisions.

“Initiatives such as this which focus on reducing potential incidents on our road network benefit all road users and highlights our resolute commitment to making cycling an enjoyable and viable way to get around.”

The initial and subsequent installations of this type of signage is grant funded by Cycling Walking Safer Routes from Transport Scotland which promotes cycling, walking or road safety projects.

Source: smartcitiesworld.net

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