Harrogate cycling group celebrates 'long awaited' switch-on of pedestrian crossing at busy road
The completion of a new road crossing on the Stray in Harrogate has been welcomed by cycling campaigners.
Members of Harrogate District Cycle Action today celebrated the opening of the new crossing at Wetherby Road, albeit with some concern about how it will work.
The Toucan Crossing at the Empress Roundabout end of Wetherby Road, which enables people using Slingsby Walk to cross this busy road, has been a longstanding priority for Harrogate District Cycle Action.
But the group retains reservations about its operation for pedestrians and cyclists.
Writing in their latest newsletter, HDCA said: “We are pleased to see the crossing finally in place.
"There are sensors on the lights that detect motor vehicles and keep the lights green for them if they are present.
"This means that when there is traffic, it takes a long time for the lights to turn green for people crossing – around 35 seconds.
"The problem is that the delay in the lights changing to green for pedestrians and cyclists starts from when the button is pressed.”
The cycling campaign group says that, if no one has crossed recently, the lights can change quickly.
It argues the alternative pre-timed maximum system would be “more sensible”.
But, it adds, is not currently used by North Yorkshire Council.
Established in 2003, Harrogate District Cycle Action’s approach is to work with, and lobby, local government to improve cycling infrastructure and promote cycling as a sustainable form of transport in Harrogate.
For more information, visit : https://harrogatecycleaction.org.uk/2025/11/04/toucan-crossing-of-wetherby-road/