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A States Assembly decision to develop a network of lanes along which pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders would have priority appears to have been quietly shelved by Constables.
In July 2020, States Members approved a proposition from Deputy Rob Ward to designate certain lanes where vehicular traffic would only be allowed if the journey was “essential”.
This network could include existing Green Lanes, where the speed limit is 15mph, but would not be limited to them.
Deputy Ward said at the time: “Too many Green Lanes are recognised as cut throughs for traffic and become the classic ‘rat run’ at times of day.
“The emphasis on the legal requirement to obey priorities and speed limits provides a stimulus for the behavioural change needed. An example is Vallée de Vaux in St. Helier.
“The gradual change of Green Lanes to a cycle- and pedestrian-friendly environment creates a cycle network across Jersey. As we emphasise the shift to more sustainable transport, we can increase cycle ridership and walking.”
He added: “It would serve as a stimulus for the development of more walking and cycling groups for all sections of our population. The numerous health benefits from this type of activity is clear. We have an Island-wide resource that we are not using to the full.”
Pictured: Deputy Rob Ward's amended proposition was passed by the States by 25 votes to 20 in July 2020. (Gary Grimshaw)
The proposition charged the Comité des Connétables with identifying the network, proposing legislative changes, devising new signage, and undertaking a public awareness campaign.
The Comité accepted Deputy Ward’s proposition, having successfully amended it to introduce the concept of ‘designated lanes’ rather than ‘Green’ and ‘quiet’ lanes.
More than two-and-a-half years later, no lanes have joined the network and it now seems that the Constables are changing tack.
Chair of the Comité and Constable of St. Brelade Mike Jackson said: “It was perhaps one of those propositions passed by the States which was not thoroughly thought through.
“It would be very difficult to achieve while maintaining access to properties. People have to get home, family members have to visit and tradespeople have to have access.”
He added: “I think the solution is to look at each lane on a case-by-case basis. The reality is that the principle of the proposition is right but, in practice, we have to work within the parameters of the law.”
On the issue of preventing ‘rat-runs’, Mr Jackson said: “The usual method is to monitor the situation in order to understand the problem. It is often one or two motorists speeding down a lane at the same time each day. In that case, often words of advice from an honorary officer usually do the trick.
He added: “It takes a while to put speed limits in place and get them through the system, and there is a balance to be struck with signage because many people think there are already too many around the island.
“Overall, my view is that Deputy Ward’s well-intentioned proposition is best addressed on a case-by-case basis.”
Pictured: Constable Mike Jackson, Chair of the Comité des Connétables. (Gary Grimshaw)
Responding to Mr Jackson’s comments, Deputy Ward said he would continue to fight for the adoption of his proposition.
“There appears to be a complete misunderstanding of what it calls for and it seems to be another attempt to wreck a legitimate backbench proposition,” he said.
“It is not about restricting access to family members and tradespeople; it is designating specific lanes where cycling and walking are encouraged, where residents feel safe when stepping out of their front door.
“There is an old argument that it cannot be policed; well, there’s a lot of things on this island that cannot be policed but we rely on the goodwill of islanders to respect the rules. And one of the great things about living here is that most people do.”
He added: “I shall continue to promote and encourage simple ways to find solutions to our transport problems, rather than the grand and expensive infrastructure projects that our Government seems to prefer.
“I will also endeavour to educate Infrastructure Minister and the Comité on what the proposition actually means and show them ways it can be used positively and effectively.
“It would improve the traffic which goes past people’s homes each day and the network could increase as it became more familiar to islanders.
“At the moment, all I see is a lack of action and an unwillingness to make real change.”
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