IT is reported that drivers are ignoring the no entry sign on Langdale Road, Sale, at the rate of one every 10 minutes. 'Brakes put on queue dodgers' (Messenger, July 21).

It is frustrating that travellers are subjected to delays at peak times and the temptation is to perform this dangerous and selfish manoeuvre.

The restriction of motor vehicles however is necessary to avoid rat running. It is even more frustrating for people wishing to cycle who know that it would ease congestion and be safer for all to take this contraflow route rather then take the main road along the A56.

The road here is wide enough to accommodate a cycling contraflow TRO (traffic regulation order) with little or no change to the infrastructure (other than signs to except cycling from the no entry order). There are numerous one way roads throughout Trafford located on quiet roads that are preferable for two-way cycling.

CyclingUK (aka CTC) and Greater Manchester Cycling Campaign (GMCC) would like to see most one way roads allow two-way cycling: Allowing cyclists to ride two-way in one-way streets makes cycling in town and cities more convenient by opening up the street network and providing short-cuts. It can also help make cycling safer by offering alternatives to busy roads, and may help stop people riding on the pavement.

Contra-flow works perfectly safely in many other European countries, where it is already widespread.

As it gives cycling an advantage over driving, contra-flow helps encourage a shift from cars to cycles for short local journeys.

Evidence from Belgium suggests that, compared to the road network, the risk of injury is lower in a one-way street with contra-flow cycling.

One-way systems put cyclists at a disadvantage, making their journeys longer and more stressful. Restoring two-way cycling on one-way streets can significantly improve the safety, convenience and attractiveness of cycling.

Trafford should review all its one-way streets, with the aim of progressively converting them either to two-way use (particularly for one-way systems on more major roads), or permitting contra-flow cycling (e.g. on narrower streets), unless it can be demonstrated that there are overriding hazards affecting cyclists.

A change in the law in 2012 allows local authorities to use 'except cycles' signs without DfT consent.

In many cases, e.g. on quieter roads, unsegregated two-way cycling on an unmarked road is an appropriate solution. More heavily trafficked one-way roads should be provided with contra-flow lanes.

For more info check out the Cycling UK web site www.cyclinguk.org .

If you think a one way street near you should allow 2 way cycling please let us know its location and if possible send a photo to richard@gmcc.org.uk . A list of locations is being compiled www.cyclestreets.net/photomap/tags/contraflowtrafford/ Richard Alderson (member Cycling UK and GMCC) Sale