Shrubs in plant boxes and heavy-duty rubber “armadillos” have replaced double yellow lines in a Camden street as part of a scheme to provide safer routes for cyclists.
The project — the first of its kind in the UK — is being tested in Royal College Street but could be extended to a network of cycle routes which will eventually stretch from Kentish Town to King’s Cross.
Almost half of the street is now designated for use by cyclists, with two-metre-wide tracks in each direction, fenced off by the planter boxes and the armadillos — round rubber blocks that have been screwed into the road. These prevent cars from being parked, so double yellow lines are not needed.
Camden plans to extend the project to more streets and other UK councils are expected to adopt the practice. Jean Dollimore, Camden Cycling Campaign co-ordinator, said: “The changes on Royal College Street demonstrate how to make cycling safe and attractive for everybody including young children.”
Six people have been killed while cycling in London this year and a day of protest by the London Cycling Campaign is planned for September 2.
