Blackspots for cyclists must be addressed

The latest shocking near-fatal collision involving a young cyclist on the Mill Lane Roundabout at the egress of Clewer Village is further proof that dangerous conditions there must now be addressed comprehensively as a matter of urgency.

Of Berkshire's 16 worst blackspots for cyclists, data collated from police traffic records confirmed this roundabout is third on the list.

One of the ‘High Priority’ costed schemes for Windsor in the RBWM Cycling Action Plan (2018-28) is a ‘toucan’ lighted crossing for pedestrians and cyclists to upgrade the current zebra crossing west of this roundabout.

Linking to Sustrans NCN4 route as it passes through Clewer, a regulated crossing here would provide cyclists one of the ‘safe passages’ they desperately require.

Increased national and local support for cycling with respect to health and wellbeing during the pandemic as well as cycling’s positive impact on CO2 emissions relating to Climate Change give RBWM every justification to take pro-active, robust measures here in line with their adopted policy.

The roundabout provides essential safe egress for drivers exiting Mill Lane and was reinstated following public outcry for its return after the 2012 Olympics.

What it cannot provide is an equally protected route for cyclists.

International research over a lengthy period consistently illustrates the principle that roundabouts and cyclists just don't mix – for all the reasons this recent ‘close call’ so clearly demonstrates.

S SHEARER Bailey Close Windsor