Cambridge road to become England's first cycle street
Around 3,000 cyclists use Adams Road every day
A road in Cambridge is set to become England's first official cycle street.
Adams Road is used by 3,000 cyclists at peak times every day, and is one of the busiest cycle routes in the city.
The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) said the project - part of its Comberton Greenway initiative to make travel in and around the city easier - will redesign the road to prioritise walking and cycling in a bid to improve safety.
"We’ve heard too many stories of cyclists being knocked off their bikes and car doors suddenly opening into their path, while elderly and vulnerable residents have to step into the road just to get around bins or parked cars," Councillor Brian Milnes, the GCP's chair, said.
"That shouldn’t be the reality on one of Cambridge’s busiest cycling routes (and) this project is about putting people first, making everyday journeys safer and easier for everyone."
What is the project?
Under the scheme, the GCP said most on-road parking will be removed to help eliminate blind spots for drivers leaving driveways, and redesigned junctions.
Raised crossing and wider footpaths are also planned to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians.
A GCP spokesperson said the project will address some of the risks posed by the current Adams Road layout, such as narrow pavements and busy junctions.
“For this change to happen, there will be temporary disruption. We’ve worked hard to design a construction programme that is sensitive to the needs of residents and others using the street," Cllr Milnes said.
'Cycling success'
Dan Strauss, representing residents on Adams Road, welcomes change.
“Adams Road is a cycling success story but as it’s got busier, hundreds of parked cars are creating blind spots for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists," he said.
"Fast moving traffic, crowded pavements and constant near misses have turned one of the busiest cycle routes in Cambridge into an unsafe cycling experience.
"We’re a cycling city and we’re proud to be leading the way in showing how we can better share our roads to provide safe travel for all.”
Construction on Adams Road - set to last 30 weeks - is due to start on October 13.
Anna Williams, head of campaigns and engagement at Camcycle, hopes the work will be the start of similar projects in the city.
"Providing more space for people walking, wheeling and cycling will improve safety, encourage more people to choose active travel for their everyday journeys and create a nicer street for everyone who uses it," she said.