NRA cycle route rules gives motorists priority at junctions

Design standards for the National Cycle Network and other rural routes have been published by the National Roads Authority (NRA) which gives motorists priority at junctions as a default position.

The manual says: “Junction and crossing facilities should include clear rules with respect to which user has priority and due to the high speed nature of the rural environment cyclists will generally be required to give way to motor vehicles at conflict points.”

The NRA is seen by many cyclists and cycling campaigners as having a very poor record on cycle route design.

The standards also allow for 1.5 meter cycle paths and 1.75 meter two-way shared use path — both of which are narrow by best international standards and do not seem to be allowed in urban areas covered by the National Transport Authority’s National Cycle Manual.

The summary of the NRA rural standards document says: “This document provides design standards for cycle facilities in a rural environment. This standard is intended principally for National Roads in Ireland which include for projects that are part of the National Cycle Network. These design standards may also be applicable to other cycle schemes in the country.”

It adds: “Where they are used for schemes not on the National Road Network or as part of the National Cycle Network, it will be the relevant Road Authority who will decide on the extent to which the documents in the manual are appropriate.”

We’ll report on reaction and the elements of the standards as soon as we can.

The standards document can be read on the NRA’s website.

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