The UK’s second cycle optimised protected signals (CYCLOPS) junction has opened in Bolton, with a further nine planned throughout 2021.
It follows the successful launch of the first CYCLOPS junction in Manchester last summer and is designed to separate people travelling on foot and by bike from motor traffic to reduce the possibility of collisions or conflict.
Furthermore, CYCLOPS junctions enable people on foot to get where they need to in fewer stages and with more space to wait than offered by most junctions.
Bolton Council’s executive cabinet member for highways and transport, Stuart Haslam, said: “It is great that the work on the innovative CYCLOPS junction is now complete. It is part of a package of improvements that we are delivering in Bolton town centre to make travel easier and safer for everyone.
“Motorists will benefit from reduced journey times, pedestrians will find it easier to cross this busy section of road and it is also better for cyclists whether they are turning at the junction or going straight ahead. The road and pavement surfaces at the junction are also much improved.
“It is a truly original design that gives consideration to all road users and will make it easier for us all to get around.”
Additional CYCLOPS junctions are planned in Salford, Manchester, Bury and Cambridge this year with several other UK cities and regions expressing an interest, including Newcastle and Lancashire.
According to Transport for Greater Manchester, the first CYCLOPS junction at Manchester’s Royce Road has seen over 36,000 journeys take place by people on bikes.
WATCH: Greater Manchester’s walking and cycling commissioner, Chris Boardman, explains more about the UK’s first CYCLOPS junction at Manchester’s Royce Road:
