New Highway Code to Make Active Travel Safer and Easier
New changes to the Highway Code, including putting pedestrians at the top of a new “road user hierarchy”, have been announced by the Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps.
The proposed changes, which are due to receive parliamentary approval in the autumn, will also give pedestrians priority at zebra crossings and junctions as well as raising further awareness about the dangers of speeding.
The DfT has announced that in order to build on the active travel boom seen throughout the pandemic and to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians, the new version of the Highway will include updates on:
- a hierarchy of road users that ensures road users who can do the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they may pose to others
- strengthened pedestrian priority on pavements and when crossing or waiting to cross the road
- guidance on safe passing distances and speeds and ensuring that cyclists have priority at junctions when travelling straight ahead
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said, “Millions of us have found over the past year how cycling and walking are great ways to stay fit, ease congestion on the roads and do your bit for the environment. As we build back greener from the pandemic, we’re determined to keep that trend going by making active travel easier and safer for everyone.”