Strategy behind the Standard
This is to ensure that the signage across Essex is to the highest standard whilst also keeping consistent across the county.
Best Practice Guidance to be used by Essex Highways.
LCDS Chapter 6 – Signs and Markings (1)
TSRGD 2016 (2)
ECC Recommendations
On the public highway, all signs and road markings must be taken from and comply with conditions for application set out in the Traffic Sign Regulations and General Directions (2002).
Further detailed guidance on cycle signage can be taken from London Cycle Design Standards (LCDS) Chapter 6 – Signs and Markings, which provides guidance on both signage and surface markings.
Key Guidance:
- All cycle routes are to be clearly signed, with regular blue cycle signage to ensure clarity along the route. (2)
- For cycle lanes and tracks, cycle symbols should be provided at the start of the facility and then immediately after each decision point thereafter (1)
- Where there is a high risk of conflict between cyclists and motor vehicles and where the conflict cannot be eliminated by design, warning signs can be used to raise motorists’ awareness of the likely presence of cyclists ahead. (1)
- Signs and markings should be applied sparingly in order not to add unnecessarily to street clutter. (1)
- Along National Cycle Routes, timing should be applied –
- timings should be calculated using an on-carriageway cycling speed of 10mph (16kph), and confirmed by getting people who have passed the necessary cycling requirements cycling the route at different times and conditions, so an accurate average time is reflected.
- A common sense approach is important, for instance, if a route is uphill, it may be advisable to allow for additional time. (1)
See TSRGD 2016 (2) and LCDS – Chapter 6 for more detailed signage guidance.
A ‘Schedule of Signs’ is provided in Section 6.4 of the LCDS – Chapter 6 which summarises the signs to be used for cycling infrastructure in the UK, over and above those that form part of the general traffic signing regime.
How the Standard should be applied
This should be applied for every new cycle route, and when new signage is due to be erected, however, this standard does not make it necessary to change current signage unless deemed to be detrimental to a users’ ability to use the route.