New footage has emerged showing cyclists failing to stop for pedestrians at London's 'floating bus stops,' leading to near-misses and accusations that the city's transport infrastructure is becoming a "nightmare" for vulnerable individuals. The controversial design places cycle lanes between the pavement and the bus stop, or between the bus stop and the buses themselves.
In one video, several cyclists are seen passing close to pedestrians attempting to cross the road. Despite zebra crossing markings indicating that cyclists should yield to pedestrians, the footage depicts instances where cyclists do not stop. A report from Transport for London (TfL) found that 60 percent of cyclists do not acknowledge these floating bus stops, forcing individuals, including those with guide dogs, to navigate potentially hazardous situations.
Critics argue that these designs pose significant risks, particularly for blind and visually impaired people who may not hear approaching cyclists. Sarah Gayton of the National Federation of the Blind UK (NFBUK) stated that these bus stops "will never be safe for the blind" and are effectively excluding them from public transport. She added that the elderly and disabled are avoiding bus routes due to the difficulties in crossing.
Concerns have also been raised about compliance with safety standards. It was previously reported that floating bus stops do not conform to British Standards recommendations. A 2018 guidance from the British Standards Institution warned against designs that could direct people into the paths of cyclists when boarding or alighting buses. Despite this, Mayor Sadiq Khan has overseen the rollout of these designs across the capital.
Incidents have been documented, including a child being reportedly clipped by an e-bike rider near a bus stop in Elephant and Castle. While TfL reports five pedestrian casualties involving cyclists and one involving an e-scooter over a three-year period, campaigners suggest the actual number could be higher. The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has called for a halt to the rollout of floating bus stops until their safety can be proven, noting that trained guide dogs tend to avoid these areas.
Professor Nick Tyler of University College London, who conducted tests in a simulated environment, described these bus stops as "conflict zones." Gayton has called for the abolition of floating bus stops, asserting that the current designs are not the only solution and that safer alternatives should be pursued.