Pedestrian crossings play an important role in encouraging walking and cycling. Signalised pedestrian and cycle facilities have been used on our roads for a number of years but the facilities and signalling sequences are not standardised and experience has shown that many people do not fully appreciate how they work leading to confusion and conflict. To improve the situation, the Department for Transport developed a new type of crossing, known as a Puffin, which can be used both at junctions and at crossings away from junctions. It will provide the basis for a standardised form of signalling at all crossings; crossings for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians. Puffin crossings can make more time available for pedestrians to cross when they need it, but improve network efficiency by cancelling unwanted pedestrian demands so traffic is not stopped unnecessarily. The mounting of the pedestrian signal next to pedestrians waiting to cross encourages them to look towards approaching traffic as they are waiting for the signal. Mounting in this position is also helpful for pedestrians with poor sight. The Department and the County Surveyors’ Society have developed the Puffin Good Practice Guide. The Guide provides comprehensive advice on current best practice for Puffin crossings and so helps to ensure that maximum benefits are achieved for all road users. The guidance is targeted at those involved in the whole life cycle of Puffins including advice for the decision makers involved in selecting the appropriate form of crossing and best practice guidance for designers, installers and maintainers. Advice is also included for those who arrange publicity and undertake training of school children and other vulnerable groups. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting