New powers for councils to keep cyclists safe

Local Authorities given new tools to crack down on misuse of mandatory cycle lanes

Cyclists will have safer journeys thanks to new laws coming into force from 22 June, Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris has announced today (Wednesday, 10 June).  

Local authorities in England will have new powers to use CCTV to issue penalty charge notices to drivers who park or load illegally in mandatory cycle lanes, putting cyclists at risk of a serious accident. 

Cars parked on cycle lanes pose problems for cyclists, often forcing them into the flow of traffic. With approved camera devices, it will be easier for those local authorities with civil parking enforcement powers to take action against cars illegally parked on mandatory cycle lanes, allowing cyclists to complete their journeys without deviating from their path.  

Today’s announcement is the latest measure from the Government to develop a greener, healthier and more resilient transport network in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The move comes as part of Bike Week [6-14 June], which will see a range of organisations – led by Cycling UK – encourage everyone to get pedalling to boost their fitness and protect the environment.  

Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris said:  

“Across the country there has been a surge in the number of people dusting off their old bike from the back of the shed and cycling, or taking journeys on foot, to get from A to B.  

“Giving local authorities more powers to stop cycle lanes from becoming blocked will make it safer for cyclists. 

“These new measures also build on our recent £2bn investment to create a green, healthier legacy and see more people travelling by bicycle or on foot.”  

This measure will help get more cyclists on the road and alleviate pressure on public transport infrastructure, giving people the confidence to use their bike for more journeys – perhaps for the first time.   

This news follows the Transport Secretary’s announcement of a £2bn package for cycling and walking last month to help create a greener transport network. This included £225 million for local authorities in England to create pop up cycle lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements, safer junctions, and bike and bus-only corridors.  

The public will also be able to benefit from the recently announced bicycle repair scheme, where up to half a million £50 vouchers will be issued to people in England to help get neglected bikes back on the road.

• This announcement will not affect fine levels which currently sit at a maximum of £130 in London and £70 elsewhere. 
• There are two main types of cycle lane: mandatory and advisory. A mandatory cycle lane excludes all other vehicles for all, or part of, the day. It is demarcated by a single unbroken white line on the carriageway, and should be placed in conjunction with upright signs notifying other road users when it is in operation. An advisory cycle lane is marked with a broken white line and without upright traffic signs. These may be used in situations where mandatory lanes would be too restrictive, typically where road width is restricted and motor vehicles might occasionally need to encroach on the lane.  
• The SI was laid on 29 May and comes into force 22 June. 

• Link to SI here: https://statutoryinstruments.parliament.uk/timeline/CyuP4685/SI-2020548/