Give cyclists priority at lights, says Lime boss

""Cyclists shouldn't be left on red," Stevenson wrote in an article for news website MyLondon. The traffic light system that prioritises buses contains sensors, so they know when buses are approaching. They can stay green for longer when a bus is approaching, or switch from red to green more quickly if a bus is waiting. "These lights should also allow cyclists to pass through without waiting," Stevenson said."

"Cycling now accounts for up to one in five trips in central London, with cycle traffic at peak times exceeding cars. Despite this, signal timings remain set around motor traffic speeds, which can lead to frequent stopping and less smooth journeys for people on bikes. TfL recently announced it had extended the cycle network in London from 55 miles (90km) to more than 267 miles (431km) between 2016 and 2025, with 17 new cycleway routes installed last year alone."

An e-bike hire company proposes that London traffic lights automatically prioritise cyclists to speed journeys and improve rider behaviour. The proposed system would use sensors similar to those used for bus priority to detect approaching cyclists and adjust signals to stay green longer or switch sooner. Cycling accounts for up to one in five central London trips and often surpasses car traffic at peak times, yet signal timings remain set for motor traffic speeds leading to frequent stops. London expanded its cycle network from 55 to over 267 miles between 2016 and 2025. Green wave systems in Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Germany demonstrate feasibility.

Read at www.bbc.com