Transport for London bows to cycle campaigner pressure

Responding to pressure from the London Cycling Campaign (LCC) and others, Transport for London (TfL) has today revealed that it will redesign the roundabout at Bow – described as lethal – to make it safer for cyclists.

The move comes weeks after LCC persuaded 2,750 London cyclists to write to Mayor Boris Johnson asking him to ‘make Bow safe’; organised a candlelit vigil attended by families of two cyclists recently killed at Bow; and published its own safe roundabout design on the LCC website.

TfL has published two proposals as to how the junction could be made safer as part of the redesign. It has also promised to take into account LCC feedback before implementing any changes.

“We’re delighted Transport for London has finally responded to cyclists’ calls for Bow roundabout to be redesigned, though it’s a tragedy two people had to die first," said LCC chief executive Ashok Sinha.

“At first sight, these designs potentially offer improved cyclist safety, which is vital ahead of the Olympics when it’s hoped large numbers will visit the Games by bike.

“We welcome the fact that the two Bow proposals show a more innovative approach to cycling infrastructure than we’re used to seeing from Transport for London, including a willingness to use measures common on the Continent such as separate cyclist traffic lights.

“However, we’re still calling for a comprehensive redesign of the entire junction to bring it into line with the highest standards of street layout seen on the Continent, for the benefit of everyone.

“We’ll scrutinise these proposals in detail to make sure the safety benefits are real.”

The controversial roundabout is also cause for concern for pedestrians, according to the LCC, which said it would liaise with pedestrian groups to ensure everyone can cross the junction in safety. In addition, LCC will also be asking all its members, especially those in the local area, to give their views.