Technical guidelines
Sustrans is at the forefront of developing best practice in the design of cycle facilities
Sustrans has a series of information sheets for professionals on topics such as cycle parking, cycle tourism and design issues. More info..
We are constantly monitoring use of the National Cycle Network. For information on how the Network is used, download our latest route user monitoring report (PDF).
Connect2 Greenway Design Guide (published April 09)
The distillation of 30 years of Sustrans path building experience - the Connect2 Greenway Guide is an indispensible tool for anyone involved in the construction, maintenance and promotion of cycling and walking.
Visit the Connect2 website to download chapter pdfs.
The National Cycle Network - Guidelines and Practical Details issue 2
This sets out the design philosophy and criteria for the National Cycle Network but is equally suitable for cycling infrastructure of all sorts at a regional or a local level. The following sections can be downloaded as PDF files here:
- Introduction
- Contents
- Structure and Use
- Route planning criteria
- Links within the Highway
- Junctions and Crossings
- Traffic calming
- Rural Roads
- Paths and Areas Free from Motor Traffic
- Signing, Parking and other details
- Crossing Site Assessment Record sheet
- DfT Cycle Signs Dimension sheets
- Design and Construction checklist
- Index
Making Ways for the Bicycle - A guide to construction of traffic-free paths
Published in 1994, this is the definitive guide to off-road cycle-path construction. It can be downloaded in sections, as PDF files, using the links below. Part 1 includes a full contents listing to help you download the appropriate sections.