UK’s first ‘CYCLOPS’ junction which is designed to keep cyclists safe while making a right turn comes into use
- First ‘Cycle Optimised Protected Signals’ junction opened in Hulme, Manchester
- Involves a ‘cycle track’ on the outside of the junction to separate bikes and traffic
- Dependent on signals, cyclists can make right turn away from traffic in one go
The UK’s first ‘CYCLOPS’ junction – designed to keep cyclists safe while making a right turn – has come in to use for the first time.
The ‘Cycle Optimised Protected Signals’ (CYCLOPS) junction at Royce Road, in Hulme, south Manchester, separates bikes from cars, vans and lorries by creating a ‘cycle-track’ around the outside of the junction.
Instead of turning right, creating a risk with ongoing and sometimes oncoming traffic, cyclists will be encouraged to go around the outside of the junction using the green-coloured cycle track.
The track will have its own traffic signals, which will allow cyclists to complete a right turn in one movement, dependent on signal timings, traffic chiefs at Manchester City Council say.
The ‘Cycle Optimised Protected Signals’ (CYCLOPS) junction at Royce Road, in Hulme, south Manchester, separates bikes from cars, vans and lorries by creating a ‘cycle-track’ around the outside of the junction
Instead of turning right, creating a risk with ongoing and sometimes oncoming traffic, cyclists will be encouraged to go around the outside of the junction using the green-coloured cycle track
The track will have its own traffic signals, which will allow cyclists to complete a right turn in one movement, dependent on signal timings, traffic chiefs at Manchester City Council say
In addition, segregated cycle lanes have been created on Chorlton Road, running from Chester Road to Stretford Road.
The junction marks the first part of a £13.4m cycling and walking route connecting Manchester to the suburb of Chorlton.
Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for the Environment, Planning and Transport said the feature would make travelling more efficient.
Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for the Environment, Planning and Transport Councillor Angeliki Stogia said the feature would make travelling more efficient
‘The CYCLOPS junction maximises opportunities for safer cycling and walking in this area, while making the performance of the junction more efficient for all road users,’ Councillor Angeliki Stogia said.
‘As we gradually welcome Mancunians back to their city centre, we’re really looking forward to seeing this trailblazing feature becoming a landmark part of what is a well-used commuter route.’
When complete, the 5km cycle route will run along Barlow Moor Road, Manchester Road, Upper Chorlton Road and Chorlton Road.
Work on the route will next take place on Chorlton Road between Moss Lane East and Stretford Road.
‘This UK-first junction is a symbol of our desire to create permanent, high-quality cycling and walking infrastructure, which will support the long-term shift to active travel that we want to see right across the city,’ Cllr Stogia added.
‘And it is only the latest milestone in our ambitious plans to invest in a network of safe routes for people travelling on foot or by bike.
The junction marks the first part of a £13.4m cycling and walking route connecting Manchester to the suburb of Chorlton
‘We’re continuing to move forward with our £79m pipeline of projects, which will enable more people across the city to make the switch to walking and cycling for their everyday journeys.’
Chris Boardman, cycling and walking commissioner for Greater Manchester, said he hoped the ‘genius’ project will encourage more people to cycle.
‘Crossing busy junctions on foot or by bike can be a complicated and scary experience and is often a huge barrier for people travelling by foot or bike,’ Chris said.
‘This junction design will make journeys easier and smoother for those doing their bit by cycling or walking, without impacting negatively on any other modes.
‘The design is simply genius and I’m not surprised to see other places already adopting the approach.’