Glasgow pioneers electronic signs activated by presence of cyclists

Glasgow City Council has become the first local authority in the UK to install electronic signs on its road network that are activated by the presence of cyclists.

The LED warning signs, once activated, illuminate a cycle symbol to notify drivers of the presence of cyclists. The idea behind the signs is to reduce incidents of conflict and collisions.

Prompted by the movement of a bike or cyclist, the solar-powered electronic signs have been installed at multiple locations across the city following what the council has described as a successful pilot.

Areas where location constraints affect sight lines and heighten the potential for drivers to pull out or turn across the path of cyclists are also targeted.

The council drew on previous experience of using smart sensor technology to detect cycle movement.

Part of this development work necessitated securing a dispensation from Transport Scotland to use an electronic variant of the standard ‘Cycle Route Ahead’ sign – reportedly making it the first road sign of its type anywhere in the UK.

The pilot also showed, according to the council, a decrease in the percentage of conflicts between drivers and cyclists at the junction of Berkeley Street and Claremont Street, and the local authority has now installed the illuminated safety signage at multiple locations across the city, with more to follow.

Angus Millar, councillor and transport and climate convener, said, “We want people to think of cycling as accessible, safe and attractive, and as an everyday transport mode and leisure activity.

“Creating a safer cycling city is a key element of our Cycling Plan in which we have pledged to improve safety for cyclists by providing better facilities and encouraging mutual respect between all road and path users.

“Our cycle-activated signage project is an innovative and environmentally-friendly solution that seeks to prioritise and protect vulnerable road users and prevent collisions.

“Initiatives such as this which focuses on reducing potential incidents on our road network benefit all road users and highlights our resolute commitment to making cycling an enjoyable and viable way to get around.”

The signage was grant funded by ‘Cycling Walking Safer Routes’ from Transport Scotland which promotes cycling, walking or road safety projects.