Architects and contractors must do more to curb cycling deaths

A leading light in the construction industry has taken a stand to reduce the ‘slaughter’ of cyclists on London’s roads.

Peter Murray, chairman of the New London Architecture forum, made the comments as safety campaigners prepared to stage a ‘die in’ protest to mark the death of high-profile designer Moira Gemmill. The former design director at the V&A museum was killed whilst riding her bike after colliding with an HGV earlier in April.

Writing in the Architects’ Journal, Mr Murray commented; “It is very shocking that construction is responsible for so many deaths. It behooves all those involved in the industry to make greater efforts to reduce this slaughter.

“Architects should make sure that clients and contractors are fully aware of the issues and that only lorries with properly trained drivers and the necessary safety equipment should be employed on their sites.”

The capital has been beset by a series of cycling deaths in recent months, with Transport for London set to introduce a ‘Safer Lorry Scheme’ from September.Under the new regulations, lorries over 3.5 tonnes would be banned from entering the city of London without carrying the proper safety equipment such as side guards and adequate mirrors.

The director of the UK Contractors Group, Stephen Ratcliffe, said: “We share the concerns over the safety of cyclists and other vulnerable road users, particularly in relation to what the construction industry can do to eliminate the toll of death and injuries.”

Share this article