Areas for Improvement in Essex

This page is designed to highlight areas for improvement in Essex.

Poor design is often characterised by being noticeable, whether that is because it causes a safety hazard for all who use it, or it is simply not intuitive, meaning that most people who cycle are likely to avoid it altogether.

These designs are chosen and displayed so that the design can be used for reference for any future designs. All of these designs also come with a description explaining the poor features of the design, and a link to a map for google street view, to inspect the area and the design with more detail.

All of the examples do not fit the core design principles highlighted in the London Cycling Design Standards, as listed below:

Safety
Directness
Comfort
Coherence
Attractiveness
Adaptability

Examples of Areas for Improvement:

Access controls must be accessible for all users. The access controls on this shared path nr Warren Ln in Colchester do not allow access for wheelchair users or non-standard bikes!

Brook End Rd North Sign: The sign is too large and not in keeping with other signage!

Best Practice Guidance

For best practice guidance on designing for cyclists, reference should be taken from the following documents:

LTN 1/20 – Cycle Infrastructure Design

DfT – Gear Change: A bold vision for cycling and walking

London Cycling Design Standards – Chapter 1, design requirements

Future Examples

If you have found bad design that you think should be added to this section, please send the description with a photograph to sgh.routes@essex.gov.uk, who will notify you should the application be successful.

All applicants for entries in the Areas for Improvement section will be rewarded with a pat on the back from the Essex Cycling Strategy Leader.