pedestrians and cyclists
DfT’s new plan includes 50 proposed measures and is part of the government’s strategy to deal with road rage. Credit: shirokazan.

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has unveiled a two-year action plan to improve the safety of vulnerable road users including pedestrians and cyclists.

The plan includes 50 proposed measures and is part of the government’s strategy to deal with road rage and promote mutual respect between road users.

Councils will be allowed to take strict action against dangerous parking in cycle lanes and will also be encouraged to invest around 15% of local transport infrastructure funding on walking and cycling.

Cycling and Walking Minister Jesse Norman said: “Greater road safety, and especially the protection of vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders, is essential.

“We want to improve air quality, encourage healthy exercise, reduce obesity and boost our high streets and economic productivity. That means more support for cycling and walking, and that’s what these new measures are designed to deliver.”

“We want to improve air quality, encourage healthy exercise, reduce obesity and boost our high streets and economic productivity.”

A bespoke back office unit will be established to enable police to analyse video evidence submitted by the public.

The DfT will select a new cycling and walking champion to check whether new policies meet the needs of road users across the UK.

It will also organise a new 2019 Bikeability summit, encouraging businesses to promote cycling and walking schemes to their staff.

Plans are also being considered to give drivers and motorists cheaper insurance if they pass cycle training.

The government will explore the possibility of discounts on insurance premiums to drivers or motorbike riders who pass the national cycle training system Bikeability.

According to DfT proposals, courier companies will be encouraged to incentivise drivers who take training in road safety connected to cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.

The action plan builds upon the feedback of more than 14,000 people, including organisations such as Brake, Living Streets, Cycling UK and the British Horse Society.