Parallel Crossings, Solihull
TMS has recently carried out several Road Safety Audits on Parallel Crossings on behalf of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. These types of crossings are still relatively rare in the UK, and were previously known as Tiger Crossings, as early examples had yellow stripes on black asphalt.
Parallel crossings are similar to Zebra Crossings, except that they feature a dedicated lane for cyclists parallel to the pedestrian crossing area, providing a legal priority to both cyclists and pedestrians. The advantage over Toucan Crossings is that crossing times can be quicker as people do not have to wait for a green man but can cross as soon as drivers stop for pedestrians and cyclists.
There is also less risk of conflict between pedestrians and cyclists as their lanes are separated. Therefore, they are ideal along segregated cycle routes as recommended in LTN 1/20 Cycle Infrastructure Design.
Although not shown in these examples in Solihull, parallel crossings can also be divided into two parts by way of a central refuge. In certain situations this is likely to improve the ease of use and safety, as both pedestrians and cyclists need only watch for oncoming traffic in one direction.
Our teams have audited several schemes in the Solihull area that have featured parallel crossings, at varying stages. Examples include:
Cranmore Boulevard – Off-carriageway cycle route
Stage 3 Road Safety Audit
Whitefields Road – School Safety Improvement Scheme
Stage 3 Road Safety Audit
Monkspath Hall Road – Proposed raised Parallel Crossing
Stage 1&2 Road Safety Audit
If you have a scheme that requires a Road Safety Audit on a proposed parallel crossing, or any other highway scheme, then please call us on +44 (0)24 7669 0900 or alternatively please email Lorna Styring.