New Highway Code Proposals

Good news for Pedestrians and Cyclists?

We will be safer walking and cycling in Haddenham, when we have all learnt the new Highway Code.

National press reports say that 'Changes to the Highway Code, including putting pedestrians at the top of a new "road user hierarchy", have been proposed by the UK transport secretary.

The proposed changes, which are due to receive parliamentary approval in the autumn, will also give pedestrians priority at junctions as well as raising further awareness about the dangers of speeding.The DfT said the new version of the Highway Code would include a "hierarchy of road users" that ensured those who could do the greatest harm, such as those in vehicles, had the "greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they may pose to others".

The announcement has been welcomed by the walking charity Living Streets, which says the proposed changes will "redress the balance" of road user responsibility.

Stephen Edwards, the interim chief executive at Living Streets, said: "The Highway Code currently treats children walking to school and lorry drivers as if they are equally responsible for their own or other people's safety. These changes will redress that balance.

"People walking cause the least road danger but are often left paying the price. Road users who have potential to cause the greatest harm should take the greatest share of responsibility to reduce the danger they pose.

"Whether we choose to also drive or cycle, we are all pedestrians. These proposed revisions will benefit us all."'

Alan Thawley
Chair, Haddenham Safe Walking & Cycling Group