Newbie Question: Are Off Road Cycle Tracks One Way or Two Way?

[ashd1234]

I have just bought my first cycle as an adult. There is a road, where there is a cycle track on the pavement, that is shared with pedestrians. It is separated by a line for cyclists and pedestrians.

Can I cycle both directions on this track or must I only cycle in the same direction as the traffic?

There is an on road dotted-lined cycle lane on the other side of this road, but I would prefer not to use that.

 

[mjr]

I'd follow any markings if possible, but unless there's a Traffic Regulation Order too (search local county/unitary council website) saying that you may only use the track in one direction, I think you're allowed to ride in either direction. There's rarely such an Order. Keep left when passing other users on the cycle track.

Formally, you're not allowed to ride on the pedestrian's side of the line, but I'd do so (carefully!) where it would avoid a collision. I'd expect prosecuting such an offence to be considered not in the public interest, like the cyclist who strayed from a substandard cycle track. Just as an aside: this seems different from the solid line on an on-road cycle lane, which motorists must not cross and cyclists are allowed to, but in each case, the solid line can be thought to defend the more vulnerable road user.

The road outside my house has a cycle track on one side only. People ride both ways on it and signs and junction markings indicate that this expected. Otherwise, it would be an annoying ride uphill towards town, being harassed by motorists.

 

[vickster]

Be aware pedestrians have priority either side of the line, ride slowly and considerately with people around

 

[summerdays]

Mostly they are two way unless specified.. I think the following one is uphill only but other than the arrow on the pavement I couldn't see a sign to support that (somewhere i use very very rarely - far too narrow really but I have when I've been blinded by the early morning winter sun, and not wanted to be in front of a car similarly blinded!)

 

[mjr]

Be aware pedestrians have priority either side of the line, ride slowly and considerately with people around

Pedestrians have priority everywhere, ride considerately around others everywhere.

 

[ashd1234]

Thank you everyone for your advice.