Dual provision

Dual provision is a design approach which involves employing two different (parallel) types of cycling infrastructure. The theory is that experienced 'confident' cyclists will use the roads, while those less experienced or confident will use off-road facilities.

Dual provision

The unfortunate result of this way of thinking is nearly always two poor quality routes side-by-side, usually a painted cycle lane on the road plus another one on the footpath. One will offer convenience but little safety or comfort; the other will offer comfort but little convenience. These facilities do not provide good cycling conditions for anyone, and the Embassy opposes them wholeheartedly.

While this model is still current and common in highway design, cycle campaigners are finally starting to push against it. In October 2013 London Cycling Campaign members rejected dual provision, voting instead for uniformity of provision.