New code unveiled to improve cycle-safety

Date: 22/6/2011

A new code of conduct for commercial vehicle operators has officially been launched in an effort to improve the safety of cyclists on UK roads.

The Freight Transport Association has put together the guidelines, which are made up of "reasonable expectations" pertaining to the behaviour of all motorists.

It has received the backing of several leading lorry firms, along with Transport for London, and it was launched by Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's Director of Environment and Digital.

Over the last decade, the number of people cycling in the UK capital has doubled and, under Mayor Boris Johnson's plans, it is hoped it will quadruple during the coming ten years.

Mr Ranger said: "Large freight vehicles top many cyclists' list of potential hazards when they are out on the road. That is why it is good news that a cycling code has now been written by the association for freight drivers and is also backed by some key operators."

He added that the city's roads may only get better for those on two wheels, thanks to the commitment of heavy goods motor operators to train their drivers and improve the safety features present on the lorries.

As part of the Mayor of London's Great Outdoors Programme, work is underway to redesign or upgrade public spaces, roads and paths to make them more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly.

Posted by Sarah Bailey