Included on this page
- Latest information on Hammersmith Gyratory works
- General Safer Cycle Pathway information
- Information for highway user groups
- Pedestrians
- Disabled residents
- Cyclists
- Businesses
- Motorists
- HGVs
- Emergency services - Monitoring and air quality
The Hammersmith Gyratory works
What is the scheme?
This scheme was the second phase of the Safer Cycle Pathway from Goldhawk Road through to Olympia, providing a segregated safer cycle path for cyclists both heading eastwards and westwards while still maintaining pedestrian movements in the area.
The scheme provides a segregated two-way cycle track on the north side of Hammersmith gyratory.
- Cyclist-specific signals at junctions to separate cyclists and motorised vehicles.
- Pedestrian countdown signals at the crossings of King Street, Beadon Road, Shepherds Bush Road, Queen Caroline Street, Hammersmith Road and Butterwick.
- Widened sections of footway in King Street to provide more space for pedestrians.
- A new bus lane on Beadon Road between Glenthorne Road and Hammersmith Broadway to improve bus reliability. We introduced a new signal at the junction of Hammersmith Grove and introduced a new pedestrian crossing on Beadon Road to regulate traffic and help improve the experience for pedestrians.
Why is the scheme needed?
Improving conditions for cyclists on the Hammersmith Gyratory would remove a large barrier to cycling along a key commuter corridor in west London and improve local journey times.
How do I use it as a cyclist?
Previously all cyclists that wanted to travel through this junction, had to navigate existing road with all other vehicles. The new segregated route enables cyclists to travel eastwards and westwards on a segregated cycle track controlled by its own traffic signals.
For a cyclist heading eastwards and using the newly improved interim Safer Cycle Pathway along King Street, the new section from Lyric Square will lead to sets of cycle signals that enable movement across the whole junction to Hammersmith Road. Similarly, cyclists heading westwards would join the segregated cycle route at Hammersmith Road and then travel westwards on the track through the cycle signals.
I’m a pedestrian, are my crossings changed?
The current pedestrian crossing from the Broadway to the King Street/Beadon Road footpath has been slightly re-aligned to make the crossing more direct.
How does the scheme link with the King Street Safer Cycle Pathway?
The Safer Cycle Pathway along King Street has been designed as a complete route from east to west and therefore this central section replicates the best options used in the design of cycle routes to ensure that it is safe for all users.
How does this scheme link with the rest of the gyratory?
The main scheme is focused on segregated cycle lanes through the northern section of the gyratory. However, to enable cyclists who are joining from Hammersmith Bridge Road and Blacks Lane, or who wish to head towards these roads, an additional section of segregated bi-directional track has been incorporated in the layout.
How does this scheme link to Hammersmith Road?
The Gyratory scheme has been designed to link in with the current cycle lanes along Hammersmith Road to the eastern edge of the scheme. Future plans will incorporate a new segregated cycle route along the north side of Hammersmith Road all the way to Olympia. Plans will be developed for this interim scheme in the next few months.
Are the taxi bays still being retained?
The existing taxi bays immediately outside the Broadway tube station have been retained – but have been slightly re-aligned to fit in with the scheme.
Will there be any other changes to this area of the Broadway?
The loading bay outside ‘Belushi’s’ slightly further along Shepherds Bush Road has been relocated, but this bay will still enable the businesses to receive deliveries.
All cycle parking in the immediate area of the new cycle route has been reviewed and improved as part of the overall scheme.
Are vehicle lanes affected by the new route or have any been removed?
The existing lanes for vehicles have been retained through the whole scheme but work has been carried out to make them more intuitive for motorists. The old layout created problems for motorists who found themselves in the wrong lane, and therefore in trying to reach their destination, blocked additional lanes making their manoeuvres.
Improved signage of destinations has been incorporated in the scheme for motorists.
General Safer Cycle Pathway information
What is the Safer Cycle Pathway?
The Safer Cycle Pathway is an interim two-way segregated cycle track to significantly upgrade and improve Hammersmith for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists.
The Safer Cycle Pathway extends from the Goldhawk Road and King Street intersection in the west and travel east along King Street to the Hammersmith Gyratory, through the northern section of the gyratory, and then along Hammersmith Road, past Olympia London and to the borough boundary with Kensington and Chelsea.
What has being built at the King Street /Gyratory junction?
The second section of the Safer Cycle pathway incorporated a protected cycle route that used the northern section of the Gyratory. The junction of King Street and the broadway was part of this section of works and was finished in summer 2022 to enable cyclists to transition safely along King Street and through the Gyratory and in both directions.
What type of scheme is the Safer Cycle Pathway?
The interim scheme is a simplified version of the proposed full scheme. While it replicates the alignment, it does not use the full construction design of the permanent scheme. It uses existing road space – including bus lanes – as well as rubber kerbs and wands to create the segregation between cyclists and vehicles.
Why are temporary bollards and wands being used along the route?
Because the scheme is an interim one for now, temporary materials have been used for the cycle lanes. If sufficient funding becomes available, a future permanent scheme will have dedicated permanent kerbs instead of temporary features.
Who has a say about the future of the interim scheme?
This is a scheme installed under an Experimental order which means that during its 18-months life, further comments and improvements should be gathered to inform a decision on making the scheme permanent or not in the future. Residents are encouraged to comment on the scheme during its experimental period and the council will be actively promoting consultation events in the summer.
Currently the council is seeking feedback via the cycling@lbhf.gov.uk inbox.
Further: The permanent scheme was originally consulted upon with residents and businesses in 2017. With 64 per cent of local residents in favour of the scheme, H&F Council met with TfL in December 2018. It was agreed that the scheme would be called the Safer Cycle Pathway to emphasise the focus on the delivery of a safe route through the borough that would encourage more of our residents to cycle.
How was the Safe Cycle Pathway built?
The interim Safer Cycle Pathway was built under an experimental traffic order. This enabled H&F Council and its different co-production teams, residents and businesses, to monitor and review its installation over an 18-month period before any decision is made to proceed with the full scheme.
Now the interim scheme is completed, feedback from residents will complement the work underway from the Residents’ Cycling Commission, Disabled Residents Team (DRT) and the Disabled Residents Working Group (DRWG) – all of which will feed into the final design of the Safer Cycle Pathway.
This will ensure that the final Safer Cycle Pathway is a world-class piece of transport infrastructure working for all residents as we re-imagine Hammersmith town centre, with even more green areas, trees and benches.
What is an experimental traffic order?
An experimental traffic order (ETO) is made under Sections 9 and 10 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
Similar to a permanent traffic regulation order, it is a legal document which imposes traffic and parking restrictions such as road closures, controlled parking and other parking regulations indicated by double or single yellow lines.
An ETO can only stay in force for a maximum of 18 months, during which the results are being monitored and assessed. Changes can be made during the first six months of the experimental period if necessary, before the council decides whether to continue with the experimental order on a permanent basis.
This order runs from 29 September 2021 until 29 March 2023.
Is it possible to object to an experimental traffic order?
No. It’s not possible to lodge a formal objection to an experimental traffic regulation order until it is in force. However, once in force, objections may be made to prevent the order from being made permanent within six months of when the experimental order comes into force.
Information for highway user groups
Pedestrians
Safer cycle pathway design information for pedestrians.
- Open the information for pedestrians
Has the interim route taken pedestrian space?
For the majority, the interim design uses the existing road to create a segregated cycle lane with no additional pedestrian space used with the exception of Goldhawk Road junction where – in order to minimise disruption at the junction but still enable cyclists to travel eastwards and westwards – the route has been directed behind the Lime tree.
This means that pedestrians crossing from north to south and back can continue to do so. The pedestrian crossing facility has been enhanced and made more prominent.
How does a pedestrian cross the cycle path?
For the majority of the route, the cycle track is segregated from both pedestrians and vehicles, but where the route passes through sections like outside Lyric Square, the interim cycle path will continue on the north side of King Street. It will be designed in a way that enables pedestrians to cross regularly and informally, however pedestrians are encouraged to use the existing, designated crossings.
Will the bus stops be accessible for all?
All bus stop islands have tactile paving to help blind and visually impaired people people find the mini zebra crossing. There is space for a wheelchair user to get on and off the bus. We have also added ramps and road markings to warn cyclists to give way to pedestrians crossing on the mini zebra crossing to and from the bypass bus stop. We expect all cyclists to cycle considerately and give way to pedestrians.
We are also investigating options for the permanent scheme to enable Disabled people including blind and visually impaired people feel safe when crossing the cycle lane or navigating the bypass bus stop island.
All bus stops have a bus shelter with seating.
We have developed the design for these bus stops with our Disabled Residents Group to help guide passengers safely to and from the bus stop island.
Disabled residents
Safer cycle pathway design information for Disabled residents
- Open the information for Disabled residents.
How will Disabled people be impacted by new cycle way?
The route features upgraded pedestrian crossings to allow for safer crossing.
The upgraded straight across controlled pedestrian crossings will benefit all pedestrians including Disabled pedestrians. The zebra crossing outside 145 King Street (the council’s customer service centre) is upgraded to a staggered pedestrian crossing during the interim scheme.
We have added ramps, road markings and signage to warn cyclists to give way to pedestrians crossing on the mini zebra crossings to the bypass bus stop.
We are also investigating further options for the permanent scheme to enable blind,; visually impaired and Disabled people feel safe when crossing the cycle lane or navigating the bypass bus stop island.
How do I cross the cycle lane?
There are three ways of crossing the cycle lane. They are signal controlled pedestrian crossings, zebra crossings and mini zebra crossings to cross the cycle lane to reach the bus stop island. Countdown times at controlled pedestrian crossings have been extended to allow people to cross the cycle lane.
Where are the blue badge parking locations?
A total of 15 Blue badge parking spaces are available at the following locations:
Side roads off King Street between Glenthorne Road and Great West Road
- Blacks Road 2
- Hammersmith Grove 1
- Cambridge Grove 3
- Albion Place 1
- Studland Street 1
Side roads off King Street between District Tube Line and Great West Road
- Rivercourt Road 1
- Weltje Road 3
- Ravenscourt Avenue 1
- Hamlet Gardens 1
- Standish Road 1
Are Mobility scooters allowed to use the cycle lanes?
Yes. We encourage users of Mobility scooters to use the protected cycle lanes from traffic.
Are there audio signals along the route to notify pedestrians about approaching cyclists?
There are audible signals and rotating cones at all controlled pedestrian crossings. There are no audible signals at zebra crossings or mini zebra crossings to warn pedestrians about oncoming cyclists on a two-way cycle lane.
As a safety measure, we have added ramps and road markings to warn cyclists to give way to pedestrians crossing on the mini zebra crossing to the bus stop island. We expect all cyclists to cycle considerately and give way to pedestrians.
Where are the bus stops?
There is no change to the Kings Mall Shopping Centre bus stop because the cycle lane is on the north side of King Street. There is one new bus stop for eastbound buses on the north side of King Street outside Westcroft Square.
There are four other bus stops on the south side of King Street between Hammersmith Town Hall and Goldhawk Road. These are now bypass bus stops where the pedestrians must cross the cycle lane to reach the bus stop island.
What is a standard bus stop? Where are they?
Standard Bus Stops enable passengers to get on and off the bus directly from the pavement.
For the Safer Cycle Pathway, the only Standard Bus Stop is to be found in the section of King Street near Lyric Square, outside the Boots store.
What is a bypass bus stop? Where are they?
A ‘Bus Stop Bypass’ is an arrangement that involves a cycleway running behind the passenger boarding area at a bus stop, between an island and the footway. The bypass consists of cycle lane which should be separated by kerbs from the footway, with minor level difference.
Bus passengers cross the cycle lane on a mini zebra crossing to and from the bus stop island. There are road markings to warn cyclists of pedestrian priority. There are four bypass bus stops between Hammersmith Town Hall and Goldhawk Road junction.
What is a staggered crossing? Where are they?
A staggered crossing is a signal-controlled crossing where pedestrians cross the road in two phases, pushing a button to activate a signal to cross to an “island” in the middle of the road and then doing the same to use the second crossing to cross the road.
The existing zebra crossing in front of the council’s customer services offices at 145 King Street will be replaced with a staggered pedestrian crossing in two stages.
This pedestrian controlled signalled crossing will allow pedestrians to cross from the south side of King Street to an island in the middle of the road, and from the island to the north side of King Street across the two-way cycle lane via a mini zebra crossing.
Can taxis drop off passengers along the route?
Yes. We’ve consulted local taxi hire services to ensure we maintain enough taxi bays and other temporary, dedicated drop-off areas along the route.
Is there an equalities impact assessment for the scheme?
Yes. The design includes a dedicated Equalities Impact Assessment, which is regularly updated, as well as a number of independent safety audits. Additionally, we’ve been working closely with an accessibility consultant to further improve the scheme.
Cyclists
Safer cycle pathway design information for cyclists.
- Open the information for cyclists
When can I use the cycle lane?
We are building the interim scheme as quickly as possible, but construction is complex and will take around six months in total so there will be some disruption. We will set out diversion routes where appropriate.
Are the lanes segregated?
Yes, all cycle lanes that are part of the full interim cycle path route from Goldhawk Road through to Olympia London are fully segregated from traffic so only cyclists, trial e-scooters and mobility vehicles, will be allowed to use them.
Are the cycle lanes wide enough for cargo bikes?
Yes. The majority of the route will be 3m wide, or respectively 2.5m wide around bus stop bypasses, allowing easy passing of cyclists in both directions. Cargo bikes are able to use the path without blocking cyclists coming the other way.
Is the route two way?
Yes, the route has been designed to enable cyclists to cycle in both directions at the same time.
Will there be additional bike parking?
H&F Council is currently developing the design that will enable us to add additional cycle parking spaces for all types of bikes, including cargo bikes, along the route.
Businesses
Safer cycle pathway design information for businesses.
- Open the information for businesses
How do I get my deliveries?
Because the interim cycle route uses some of the road space, we have been careful to maintain existing loading bays along the route. Where the road space has been narrowed, we’ve allocated additional loading space on the nearest side road to minimise disruptions for existing deliveries.
How can my customers reach me?
All footpaths leading to and from businesses along King Street will be maintained, ensuring that all local businesses along the cycle pathway are as accessible to customers as before.
How will my business be affected by the construction works?
Part of the construction works will inevitably lead to some road closures along the route. However, most of these works will be completed overnight so as to cause as little disruption as possible. Residents and businesses in the area will be notified of any planned works in advance.
Will the cycle lanes be permanent?
Our long-term aim is to create a permanent Safer Cycle Pathway to connect H&F’s new Civic Campus with Lyric Square, as well as the Broadway with Hammersmith Road. The interim scheme helps us trial and perfect the final design of the pathway, which will benefit residents and visitors alike.
Motorists
Safer cycle pathway design information for motorists.
- Open the information for motorists
Are cars still allowed on King Street?
Yes. The interim design uses existing road space to create a safer, segregated cycle lane while still allowing access for vehicles. However, TfL have advised motorists that the works may cause minor delays and are encouraging all drivers to change modes of transport or find alternative routes.
Where can I park?
The existing parking bays in King Street have been retained. Some of closest parking bays in the immediate side streets will be re-purposed to serve as loading bays for local businesses.
Can I park on the cycle lanes to get a delivery?
No. The cycle lanes will be fully protected by the wands and kerbs as well as a traffic order to prevent temporary parking. Along the route, including various side streets off King Street, there are existing parking spaces and loading bays available.
HGVs
Safer cycle pathway design information for HGVs.
- Open the information for HGVs
Where can I make a delivery?
There are no changes being made to any loading and unloading restrictions that are currently in place. Deliveries can be made in the designated loading bays.
Are there delivery hours?
We are currently not proposing any changes to the existing loading and delivery hours. However, this may be subject to change.
Are lorries allowed to block the cycle lanes?
No. The cycle lanes will be governed by our Parking Enforcement Team and all vehicles should use the designated loading bays or adjacent side roads to load and unload.
Emergency services
Safer cycle pathway design information for emergency services.
- Open the information for emergency services
Will the cycle lanes stop emergency services getting to me or my business?
No. Emergency services will not be affected by the cycle lanes.
All Blue light services, including ambulances and fire trucks, are allowed to use the cycle lanes but will only do so in an extreme emergency. When an emergency vehicle uses its Blue Lights, motorists are expected to allow the vehicle to pass as quickly as possible. All emergency services have been involved in the development of the scheme.
Monitoring and air quality
Are you monitoring traffic and usage of King Street?
Yes. We’ll have a comprehensive network of traffic monitoring along the length of the King Street long to measure cycle numbers, pedestrian usage and all vehicle movements. We will publish this data an appropriate time.This data is going to be made available to residents.
Will air quality be monitored along the route?
Yes. We’ll have a comprehensive network of Air Quality monitors along the length of the lane and will publish data at an appropriate time.