England's third 'Dutch-style' roundabout has opened in Sussex. The new roundabout in Chichester, which prioritises cyclists and pedestrians, is part of the major West of Chichester (Whitehouse Farm) development. This development will see 750 new homes built, along with a primary school, community building, green space, country park, allotments, and sports facilities.
The Dutch-style roundabout has a separate cycle lane around the outside and zebra crossings on each exit. Motorists must give way to cyclists and pedestrians when entering and exiting the roundabout. Construction began work on the roundabout at the Westgate/Orchard Street/Avenue de Chartres/West Street junction on June 3, and it is now open to traffic.
West Sussex County Council say the new setup aims to improve travel for people on foot, bikes, and mobility aids. The layout gives priority to people walking and cycling, whilst allowing drivers and cyclists to have a clear view of each other to ensure. The scheme also incorporates a 20mph speed limit.
The scheme is being jointly delivered by Miller Homes and Vistry Southern, with West Sussex County Council stressing that they are not funding these works. All costs associated with the design and construction of the Dutch-style roundabout are fully funded by Miller Homes and Vistry Southern, who are developers of the West of Chichester residential development. The construction cost for the roundabout is approximately £950,000.
This roundabout is the third of its kind in the country, following the first in Cambridge in 2020 and the second in Sheffield in December 2024. According to West Sussex County Council, the new roundabout is part of a wider initiative to improve road safety and promote sustainable transport. It forms part of the council's strategy to encourage more walking and cycling by making these activities safer and more convenient.
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Health
England's third 'Dutch-style' roundabout which prioritises cyclists opens
England's third 'Dutch-style' roundabout has opened in Sussex, as part of a major 750 home development, announced West Sussex County Council