The construction of a new cycleway linking Aldgate and Blackfriars has been temporarily halted pending the release of guidelines concerning floating bus stops.

This decision comes in light of worries regarding the potential hazards these bus stops may present to individuals with visual impairments.

In October 2024, the City of London Corporation greenlit the cycleway, which features two-way protected bike lanes along Queen Victoria Street, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

However, a report from city officers suggested a pause on the project until the Department for Transport (DfT) and Transport for London (TfL) provide updated guidance.

Floating bus stops, or bus stop bypasses, are designed with cycle lanes situated between the bus stop and the sidewalk. This configuration enables cyclists to proceed uninterrupted while passengers get on or off the bus, although pedestrians must cross the cycle lane to reach the bus.

Advocates for cycling assert that these designs are essential for decreasing road hazards and enhancing cycling safety.

Conversely, organizations such as the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and the National Federation of the Blind of the UK (NFBUK) have described the floating bus stops as “unsafe” for visually impaired individuals.

In July, the DfT put a hold on the deployment of a particular style of these bus stops, which have the bike lane positioned between the bus stop and the curb.

Updated guidance regarding all floating bus stops is anticipated from the DfT and TfL in early 2026.

The officer’s report from the City of London Corporation advocated for the cycleway project to be paused until this guidance is made available, a recommendation that councillors approved on September 16.

A public consultation regarding the proposed cycleway held last year revealed that 79% of participants viewed the plans positively. Nevertheless, some did express concerns regarding the planned floating bus stops.