A CITY council boss has echoed concerns about the prospect of “conflict” between pedestrians and cyclists in a redesigned Frideswide Square.

Oxford City Council has expressed concern about “shared space” elements of the £5.5m redevelopment of the city landmark.

It is intended that cyclists and pedestrians will share the same area of pavement as part of a rethink of traffic in the square.

Last month the Oxford Mail reported concerns from the Cyclists’ Touring Club and Cycling Embassy of Great Britain about the design.

 

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They warned of a “lack of clear routing for cycling” that would “needlessly [put] people walking and cycling into conflict”.

A report by city council head of city development Michael Crofton Briggs said: “As with other aspects of the design there is a careful balance to be struck to overcome potential conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

“The county council’s proposals are pragmatic and seem on balance to be appropriate. The city council considers, however, that there should be a much clearer differentiation of the shared space routes through the type and colour of surfacing.

“As in other shared spaces, such as New Inn Hall Street and St Ebbes Street, cyclists and pedestrians will be expected to take notice of other users’ needs and to be aware that the space is shared.”

He said that making the shared space area clearer would “maximise security and user confidence” for both pedestrians and cyclists.

The redesign of the square will see traffic lights replaced by a large roundabout by the railway station and two mini-roundabouts by the Royal Oxford Hotel.

A series of public open spaces will be created on three sides.

Initial work has started and construction on the square will begin in February for a December finish.

The county council has been consulting on the final design elements of the square, including the type of paving stone to be used.

Spokesman Paul Smith said: “Consultation responses will be reported to the council’s cabinet on October 21 and councillors will have the chance to consider comments made by consultees before decisions are made.”

 

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