Glasgow first in the UK to install cycle-activated LED safety signage on road network

Glasgow has become the first in the UK to install cycle-activated electronic signage on its road network.

The LED warning signs, which light up a cycle symbol to alert drivers to the presence of cyclists, are designed to reduce incidents of conflict – especially where travel routes cross side-junctions or building entrances.

Activated by the movement of cycles, the solar-powered signs have been installed at multiple locations across the city following a successful pilot.

The pilot showed a decrease in the percentage of conflicts between drivers and cyclists at the junction of Berkeley Street and Claremont Street.

The signage was a key safety initiative for Glasgow City Council, aiming to reduce any conflict between road users where blind spots can affect eyesight and increase the potential for drivers to pull out or turn across the path of cyclists.

Part of the development work involved securing an exemption from Transport Scotland to use an electronic variant of the standard “Cycle Route Ahead” sign – making it the first sign of its type anywhere in the UK.

Councillor Angus Millar, transport and climate convener said: “We want people to think of cycling as accessible, safe and attractive, and as an everyday transport mode and leisure activity.

“Creating a safer cycling city is a key element of our Cycling Plan in which we have pledged to improve safety for cyclists by providing better facilities and encouraging mutual respect between all road and path users.

“Our cycle-activated signage project is an innovative and environmentally-friendly solution that seeks to prioritise and protect vulnerable road users and prevent collisions.

“Initiatives such as this which focuses on reducing potential incidents on our road network, benefit all road users and highlights our resolute commitment to making cycling an enjoyable and viable way to get around.”