Latest news straight to your inbox Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Overtaking bicycles could be banned in Brum on special “cycle streets” with a speed limit of 15 mph.

The radical plan has been launched by the Government in a bid to tempt more people out of cars and to use more healthy modes of transport.

Under the scheme, places which have been designated Cycle Cities and have therefore demonstrated a commitment for biking, will test the proposals.

Birmingham was last August told that it had won a £17 million fund, which it then topped up for a total of £24.3 million to be spent on improving cycling.

The Department for Transport revealed in the latest Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions legislation (TSRGD), that it is planning the measures.

The DfT document said: “We will be taking forward the opportunity to trial the cycle streets concept within the revised TSRGD.

“This is a bold initiative, which is being considered by some of the Cycle Cities and London, possibly including a ban on overtaking on lightly trafficked roads where cycle flows are high.



"Subject to any scheme trial, this prohibition could be accompanied by an advisory speed limit of 15mph.”

David Cox, chair of CTC, the national cycling charity said: “There is hardly anywhere where cyclists get priority. You are either sharing space with faster heavier motor vehicles or allowed onto shared use pavements with pedestrians and as on the A38 to Selly Oak these are poorly designed, discontinuous and slow. Canal tow paths similarly – pedestrians should have priority.

“Birmingham’s cycle lanes are narrow and only protected by paint. Advanced stop lines are of limited use, often ignored and potentially dangerous. I am greatly encouraged by Birmingham’s new approach.”

A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: “We are currently considering our response to the consultation being carried out. Here in Birmingham we have started the Birmingham Cycle Revolution project and are in the process of planning for the trial of 20 is Plenty – which will see 20mph limits implemented on the vast majority of city roads.

“These two schemes will make cycling much safer and easier in the city, improving the health of citizens and the environment in the process.”