Transport for London has issued an appeal for bikers to trial a new roundabout design that, if successful, could be rolled out across the capital.

TFL, along with the Transport Research Laboratory, is trailing a new style of roundabout that is designed to separate cyclists from other vehicular traffic, with the intention of reducing the number of accidents involving bicycles.

The new design, which is common in the Netherlands, sees cyclists given a segregated lane around the edge of the roundabout, with a tighter geometry serving to slow down traffic around the roundabout. TFL is hopeful of introducing the redesigned roundabouts in London next year.

A test site at TRL’s facility in Wokingham is already operational and cyclists, drivers and bikers are invited to participate in research at the site.

Any bikers over the age of 25 interested in taking part should complete a form on TRL’s website. Participants will need to spare half a day and will be compensated for their time.

“Cycling is not always an option for those commuting longer distances and therefore motorcycling needs to be factored into a two-wheel vision for London,” said Steve Kenward, CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Association. “Cyclists and motorcyclists have a good deal in common as vulnerable road users and any measures which improve the safety outcomes for all two-wheel riders would be welcomed by the MCI.”

Karen Cole, MCIA Safety Director, added:

“The areas we would be concerned about are whether a tighter geometry at roundabouts results in motorcyclists being squeezed out by cars and lorries and whether tighter turning traffic results in more diesel spillages, which would be a problem for motorcyclists. Also whether a motorcyclist giving way to a cyclist and effectively stopping mid island could then be rammed by the vehicle behind.”