Oxford cyclists forced to swerve to avoid roadwork diversion signs placed on cycle lane

The position of diversion signs put in place in Oxford while roadworks are carried out to improve conditions for cyclists and pedestrians are to be reviewed – because cyclists are having to swerve to avoid crashing into them.

Cyclists have complained about the danger caused by the placement on a cycle lane warning motorists of a diversion while work is carried out on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council on the £450,000 New Headington Transport Improvements scheme.

One of Oxfordshire County Council’s own members, Councillor Roz Smith, said that she herself had almost hit one of the signs, reports the Oxford Mail.

“I have nearly collided into one of them and there have been a few complaints about it,” she revealed.

“Putting diversion signs in the way of cyclists and pedestrians does seem to be something that happens quite often.”

James Styring from local cycle campaign group Cyclox commented: “It is an irony that the work is to make the streets more accommodating for cyclists.”

Oxfordshire County Council spokesman Owen Morton said the council was aware of the issue and would investigate whether they could be moved.

“We appreciate the diversion signs may be causing some inconvenience for cyclists,” he said.

“We will look into whether they can be better positioned while still fully visible to motorists. We are striving to keep disruption to a minimum and look forward to providing a much improved environment for cyclists and pedestrians in the area.”