In response to growing safety concerns at Regent’s Park, cyclists will now face £50 on-the-spot fines for running red lights at newly installed pedestrian crossings. The Royal Parks announced these changes in a press release dated January 12, 2026, with construction of three signal-controlled pedestrian crossings beginning the same week and expected completion by spring.
The new crossings are being installed at Monkey Hill Gate, Chester Gate, and Kent Passage along the park’s 2.7-mile Outer Circle. This popular cycling route sees approximately 62,000 daily users including riders, runners, and walkers. Unlike cars, which must adhere to a 20mph limit, bicycles currently have no speed restrictions, leading to safety issues when fast-moving cyclists encounter pedestrians. Police presence has been significantly increased to monitor cyclists who fail to observe traffic signals.
The park’s Outer Circle attracts 62,000 daily users, yet cyclists face no speed limits despite the 20mph cap for vehicles—creating hazardous pedestrian encounters.
These enforcement measures follow several serious incidents, including a fatal pedestrian accident in 2022 and another serious collision in 2024, along with numerous crashes and near-misses. The tragic death of Hilda Griffiths, 81 in June 2022 after being struck by a cyclist was a catalyst for these safety improvements. The crossings will function like normal traffic lights, with pedestrians activating them via push buttons to receive a protected green phase for crossing safely.
The decision comes after extensive consultation with Transport for London, local councils, community groups, and the public. The Crown Estate Paving Commission (CEPC) led these discussions, with the crossings jointly funded by CEPC and Royal Parks. A survey conducted prior to implementation showed that 72% of pedestrians reported experiencing near-miss incidents with cyclists in the park.
Darren Share from Royal Parks emphasized that the new crossings will improve safety and confidence for all park users. Nick Packard noted that the measures address longstanding concerns from local ratepayers about pedestrian safety in the park.
Additional safety initiatives include a cyclist code of conduct introduced in April 2025 that emphasizes speed control. Royal Parks has also requested that Strava remove Outer Circle segments to discourage high-speed training laps in the area.
The changes mark the first time traffic light rules will be enforced for cyclists within the park, with new warning signs installed in high-traffic areas and an online hub providing guidance on responsible cycling throughout Royal Parks.
