Brand new ‘CYCLOPS’ cycle junction opens in Hulme

The UK’s first Cycle Optimised Protected Signals junction has been installed in Hulme.

Designed to make busy streets safer for all users, the CYCLOPS junction protects cyclists by segregating them from general traffic with specially-allocated lanes.

Cyclists can approach the CYCLOPS from “four arms” – with a cycle track completely encircling the junction and enabling safe right turns.

The CYCLOPS is part of the £13.4m Manchester to Chorlton Cycleway, with the section running between the Chester Road roundabout and Stretford Road.

Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for the Environment, Planning and Transport, Councillor Angeliki Stogia, said: “The CYCLOPS junction maximises opportunities for safer cycling and walking in this area, while making the performance of the junction more efficient for all road users.  

“As we gradually welcome Mancunians back to their city centre, we’re really looking forward to seeing this trailblazing feature becoming a landmark part of what is a well-used commuter route.

She continued: “This UK-first junction is a symbol of our desire to create permanent, high-quality cycling and walking infrastructure, which will support the long-term shift to active travel that we want to see right across the city.

“And it is only the latest milestone in our ambitious plans to invest in a network of safe routes for people travelling on foot or by bike.  We’re continuing to move forward with our £79m pipeline of projects, which will enable more people across the city to make the switch to walking and cycling for their everyday journeys.”

Chris Boardman, cycling and walking commissioner for Greater Manchester, called the design “simply genius.”

He added: “Crossing busy junctions on foot or by bike can be a complicated and scary experience and is often a huge barrier for people travelling by foot or bike, and having to navigate a number of these can make them opt for the car,

“This junction design will make journeys easier and smoother for those doing their bit by cycling or walking, without impacting negatively on any other modes.”

Now that phase one of the cycleways project is complete, work will soon commence on the stretch of tarmac running from Moss Lane East.