Active travel routes independent of roads

Active travel routes independent from roads will normally meet the following criteria: 

  • Routes should be as direct as is possible but not at the expense of providing accessibility for all users (for example, where gradients might result in negative impacts for those with mobility issues);
  • Routes should consider connectivity to the wider community outside of the immediate development;
  • They should be in the open wherever possible. Where this is not possible, buildings should be designed with windows overlooking the route. The use of high walls or close-board fencing should be avoided;
  • Routes should be well lit and any planting, particularly trees, should not reduce illumination from the lighting;
  • Hedgerows should be set back at least 1.0m from the path and maintained in such a way that they do not overhang, encroach across, or drop thorns on the path (new plants adjacent to cycle tracks should be non-thorn varieties) At bends, the distance should be increased to 2m to maintain satisfactory visibility.
  • Routes must be designed to minimise opportunities for crime. The council will work with the relevant police force’s Designing Out Crime Officers (DOCO) to promote personal safety, and the developer should seek early advice from the DOCO on proposals for specific sites.

For guidance on Public Rights of Way requirements refer to the Rights of Way section of the LHDG. 

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photos showing good and poor design examples active travel links

Figure 19: Good and poor design examples active travel links

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Diagram showing active travel visibility splay requirements at junction, from LTN 1/20

Figure 20: Visibility distance for a cycle track as the minor arm (taken from LTN 1/20)

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