The Legend of the CYCLOPS

We recently had the opportunity to ride through one of the new CYCLOPS junctions. These are a relatively new thing in the UK and are intended to make conditions for walking and cycling much better, but without compromising the junction for drivers.

CYCLOPS stands for ‘Cycle Optimised Protected Signals’ , and they separate people walking, cycling and wheeling from vehicles, reducing the risk of conflict between users.

The cycle route goes around the outside of the junction for cars, but the timings for the lights enable you to make a right turn in a single movement, as you would if you were driving, although you might have a wait for the duration of the car phases.

It is probably a bit slower to negotiate than using the road, but it is a pleasant and relaxing experience regardless of how busy the road is.

Overall these kinds of junctions are a really positive step for active travel in the UK, and we hope that there will be many more such improvements in the region in the coming years.