There are two sorts of shared footpath and cycleway:
Segregated, where a SOLID white line seperates out cyclists and pedestrians and
Unsegregated, where cyclists and pedestrians share the full width of the facility.
Segregated Routes
Segregated routes are identifed on site by signs like this.
They are a minimum of 3 meters wide and pedestrians and cyclists are segregated by a thick white line.
When using a segregated route cyclists MUST:
- Keep to the side intended for cyclists, this is usually marked on the ground as well as on the signs.
- Slow down when passing pedestrians and allow them plenty of room.
- Give way to pedestrians who may be crossing the cycle lane when joining or leaving the route.
Unsegregated Routes
These routes are identified on site by this sign.
Unsegregated routes are usually narrower than segregated ones, typically between two and three meters wide, Cyclists and pedestrians share the whole width of the route. It is therefore important that cyclists adhere to these rules:
- Slow down and if necessary stop for pedestrians.
- Allow plenty of room when passing.
- Letting pedestrians know you are behind them by using your bell as a warning.
Whether you are travelling along a segregated or unsegregated route you should allow be polite and courteous to other cyclists and pedestrians. Remember, off road shared cycle / pedestrian routes are still part of the highway and as a result all parts of the Highway Code still apply.
Other commonly seen roadsigns.
No Cycling, cycling is not permitted along any routes that display this sign.
Route for cycling only, pedestrians are not permitted to use this route.
Route recommened for cyclists.
Route recommended for cyclists with destination shown.
Cycle lane ahead
Lane reserved for cyclists only, cars and other road traffic are not permitted to enter the lane.
Cyclists MUST get off their bikes and walk with it until advised to remount.
In addition to signs you may also see items on the road surface, these include:
Cycle lane, track or route.
End of cycle lane, track or route.