Hungerford turn off is dangerous for cyclists Options

[GMR]

The planners obviously considered that section of road a concern when it was built, hence the underpass.

Just because there is a road there, doesn't mean it's suitable for cycling on. That's why cycles are banned from motorways.

Exactly; they are banned from motorways because they are not safe. They are NOT banned from using the Hungerford turn off because cyclist are allowed to use them. Therefore it is the duty of the council to make that road a safe environment for all vehicles allowed to use it by law.

[Branston Pickle]

Thinking about things, wouldn't it be safer and simpler if cyclists just went off towards the town centre, past the clock tower and back onto the A4 at the Waitrose roundabout?

[Branston Pickle]

Exactly; they are banned from motorways because they are not safe. They are NOT banned from using the Hungerford turn off because cyclist are allowed to use them. Therefore it is the duty of the council to make that road a safe environment for all vehicles allowed to use it by law.

Also, I'd be quite interested to hear your opinion on whether or not cyclists should use roads such as the A34. Because on the one hand it is (I think) legal for them to do so, but on the other, any one attempting it must be pretty tired of life.

[GMR]

Thinking about things, wouldn't it be safer and simpler if cyclists just went off towards the town centre, past the clock tower and back onto the A4 at the Waitrose roundabout?

I never thought of that. Usually I go to the clock tower, turn right to the RHR and then left. That might be a better option. I cycle for two reasons; enjoyment and exercise. Good thinking.

[JeffG]

Or make cyclists continue on the Western Avenue and do a 180 at the Waitrose roundabout.

Let's face it, the UK is not a particularly cycle-friendly country. When they built the re-designed Robin Hood, they should have planned in a cycle underpass.

[GMR]

Also, I'd be quite interested to hear your opinion on whether or not cyclists should use roads such as the A34. Because on the one hand it is (I think) legal for them to do so, but on the other, any one attempting it must be pretty tired of life.

I haven't actually cycled on the A34, however, I've used the dual carriage way between Halfords/ going towards Pinchington Lane and that can be pretty scary. Nevertheless if I needed to use it then a little thing like danger would never get in my way.

[GMR]

Or make cyclists continue on the Western Avenue and do a 180 at the Waitrose roundabout.

Let's face it, the UK is not a particularly cycle-friendly country. When they built the re-designed Robin Hood, they should have planned in a cycle underpass.

I agree that Britain isn't cycle friendly, however, we shouldn't be browbeaten into not using such roads/ places because of it. If we want to change things then we have to make sacrifices... I just hope it isn't me being the one to die for the cause

[Darren]

Exactly; they are banned from motorways because they are not safe. They are NOT banned from using the Hungerford turn off because cyclist are allowed to use them. Therefore it is the duty of the council to make that road a safe environment for all vehicles allowed to use it by law.

Motorways are, casualty/mile, far safer than any A, B or local road, including residential areas. The reason cycles, invalid carriages and other vehicle classes are banned is because they are too slow for the motorways intended use.

To the best of my knowledge, councils have no such statuary requirement. If they did, there would have to be areas for cycles, horses and pedestrians. All of whom are entitled to use the public highways.

[GMR]

Motorways are, casualty/mile, far safer than any A, B or local road, including residential areas. The reason cycles, invalid carriages and other vehicle classes are banned is because they are too slow for the motorways intended use.

To the best of my knowledge, councils have no such statuary requirement. If they did, there would have to be areas for cycles, horses and pedestrians. All of whom are entitled to use the public highways.

Exactly