New cycle-friendly junction opens in first for Luton
A new junction has opened in Luton as part of the council’s work to make cycling and walking safer in the town.
The crossroads at New Bedford Road, Kingsdown Avenue and Austin Road has been turned into a CYCLOPS (Cycle Optimised Protected Signals) style junction.
The first of its kind in Luton, it has a new system to allow cyclists and pedestrians to simultaneously cross all arms of the junction at the same time, while being safe from vehicles.
The council says if the new layout is successful, more could be rolled out, with the help of highways contractor, VolkerHighways.
Cllr Javed Hussain, portfolio holder for highways, said: “Improving this junction is an important step in making cycling and walking safer and more attractive options for residents.
“We know New Bedford Road is a busy and well-used route, so it’s vital we get the balance right for all road users.
“This junction improvement gives us the opportunity to see how the new layout works in practice and to listen to feedback from the community.
“Encouraging more active travel not only helps us tackle congestion and improve air quality, but also supports our wider ambitions to create a healthier, more sustainable town.”