Green man will stay active for extra second so people ‘feel they can leave their homes’

Green man will stay active for extra second so people ‘feel they can leave their homes’ Green man waiting times will be extended to accommodate slower Britons who might otherwise feel they “can’t leave their own house” without a car. Guidelines announced by the Department for Transport will extend the wait time by 20 percent, as people currently don’t have enough time. Walkers crossing UK roads have 6.1 seconds, requiring people to travel approximately 1.2 metres per second. The new guidelines will extend the time, decreasing the speed people will need to walk. Officials have reasoned this is necessary as an increasing number of Britons are struggling to cross roads within the current allotted time. Brian Deegan, the Director of Inspections at Active Travel England, compiled the DfT’s latest guidance. He explained that some people are “excluded” by the current average time, which is “aimed at the average person”. Mr Deegan added: “If we don’t give people enough time, they are going to feel they can’t cross the road and that will leave some people feeling that they can’t leave their own house if they don’t have a car. “We are going to have to meet people where they are. That means local authorities might need to think about extending crossing times.” READ MORE: Gridlocked UK town where traffic jams are so bad locals have to walk everywhere A spokesman for Active Travel England told Sky News the recommendations form part of a drive to encourage more people to travel by walking, wheeling and cycling on short trips. While the guidance does not aim the changes at any group in particular, some people have experienced trouble crossing roads more than others. A study conducted by University College London in 2013 found that older people struggle to cross the road than younger Britons. Trending SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info