Temporary Covid-19 improvements for walking and cycling
We've received government funding to make changes to some of our roads and paths to support the increased walking and cycling that has taken place during the Coronavirus pandemic. Work on these improvements will take place between August and September.
The improvements include new or improved cycle lanes, reduced speed limits and improved paths, with the aim of providing more space for walkers and cyclists, and to make them feel safe on the roads, as traffic increases. Overall, we hope that these changes will:
- encourage people to maintain healthy lifestyles and enjoy walking and cycling as a cheap and healthy way to get around
- keep people safe while they travel and exercise
- support people to continue to shop locally
These schemes are initially temporary and we'll continue to review and change where necessary, which may include considering whether to make these more permanent. As social distancing measures are likely to remain in place for some time, providing space for walking and cycling remains important.
Where the changes are taking place
Although the first set of changes are in Durham City and surrounding areas, we have submitted an application for further funding which would pave the way for additional schemes elsewhere in the county.
Emergency Active Travel Scheme - Durham City map (PDF, 3.1mb)
See table below for a full list of proposed changes in the city area.
| Where | Proposed improvements |
|---|---|
| Rotary Way, Pity Me (Pity Me roundabout to Arnison Centre roundabout) |
The map shows some of the improvements for cyclists, which include:
All drivers who need to get to the Premier Inn or Dunelm Ridge will have to do this from the Arnison Centre roundabout. |
| Pity Me to New College Durham | Improvement for cyclists and pedestrians:
|
Front Street, Pity Me (Alexandra Close to Abbey Road) |
The map shows some of the improvements for cyclists, which include:
|
| Front Street, Framwellgate Moor (Alexandra Close to St Cuthbert's Avenue including North Terrace and Durham Terrace) |
The map shows some of the improvements for cyclists, which include:
|
| Links to Great North Cycleway (A167) | Improvement for cyclists:
|
| Pelaw Leazes Lane, Durham | Improvements for pedestrians and cyclists:
|
| A181 Gilesgate access road | Improvement for cyclists and pedestrians:
|
Further information about the improvements
Pedestrian and disabled access
Pedestrian and disabled access in the areas where the work is taking place will not be affected.
Parking
Parking bays will be suspended on Pelaw Leazes Lane, but will not be affected anywhere else.
Access to shops
Access to the shops will not be affected. We hope that the measures will encourage more people to shop locally and create more vibrant places to visit.
Consultation
In June and July 2020 we consulted on what improvements you thought would help. Your responses have helped us prioritise where improvements are needed. More information about the consultation is at Help us create better street space in County Durham.
