Cycle Infrastructure Design (2020) Summary

The original document can be found here

The Cycle Infrastructure Design LTN 1/20 is a detailed guidance document issued by the UK Department for Transport to establish high-quality cycling infrastructure across the country. It aligns with the Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS) and aims to integrate cycling as a primary mode of transport. The guidance sets out best practices, technical standards, and funding requirements for local authorities designing cycling networks.

Purpose and Context

Cycling is expected to play a larger role in transportation, requiring better infrastructure.
The guidance aims to ensure cycling is treated as mainstream transport rather than an afterthought.
Government funding for cycling infrastructure is conditional on adherence to this guidance.
The document replaces previous guidance (LTN 2/08 and LTN 1/12).

Core Design Principles
The guidance outlines five fundamental principles for cycle infrastructure:

Coherence: Routes must be well-connected, easy to navigate, and consistently high quality.
Directness: Cycling routes should be as direct as possible, minimizing detours and unnecessary stops.
Safety: Infrastructure must protect cyclists from high-volume traffic and provide safe crossings and junctions.
Comfort: Routes should have smooth surfaces, adequate width, minimal obstructions, and gentle gradients.
Attractiveness: Infrastructure should integrate with the urban landscape, creating inviting spaces for cyclists.

Key Design Guidelines
Dedicated Cycle Space:

Junctions and Crossings: Cyclists should have dedicated infrastructure at junctions, minimizing conflict with pedestrians and vehicles. Raised tables, separate signals, and protected cycle lanes should be implemented.
Cyclists must be physically separated from pedestrians and motor vehicles on busy streets. Shared-use paths should be avoided in high-traffic areas.
Low-Traffic Routes: Quiet streets can be used for cycling if traffic reduction measures, such as modal filters, are in place to prevent rat-running.
Cycle Parking and Facilities: Secure and accessible cycle parking should be provided at key destinations, including transport hubs, shopping areas, and residential zones.
Surface Quality and Maintenance: Roads and cycle tracks should be well-maintained, with smooth, durable surfaces free of potholes and debris. Regular sweeping and winter maintenance are essential.
Signage and Wayfinding: Clear, legible signs should be used to guide cyclists along routes, especially at decision points and major intersections.

Implementation and Compliance

Integration with Other Transport Modes: Cycling infrastructure should be incorporated into public transport networks, with convenient access to train stations, bus stops, and park-and-ride facilities.
Funding Requirements: To secure government funding, cycling schemes must meet the Cycling Level of Service (CLoS) and Junction Assessment Tool (JAT) criteria, ensuring a minimum quality standard.
Stakeholder Engagement: Authorities must work with local communities, businesses, and cycling organizations to design user-friendly and widely accepted cycling networks.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular assessments should be conducted to ensure infrastructure remains safe, efficient, and aligned with best practices. Authorities must be prepared to adjust designs based on real-world usage and feedback.

View more summarised government documents here