Details of how to perform a Dutch reach will be contained in the new Highway Code, which will also warn motorists of the dangers of passing too close to cyclists when overtaking.

Cycling & Walking Minister Jesse Norman said: “Britain has some of the safest roads in the world, but we need them to be safer still for all – and particularly for cyclists, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.”

Last year saw 101 cyclists die in road traffic collisions in the UK. In the four years to 2015 five cyclists were killed and 278 seriously injured by a vehicle door being opened negligently.

Cycling UK’s head of campaigns Duncan Dollimore welcomed the changes. “Close overtakes and people opening car doors in front of cyclists are not only dangerous, they also put people off riding a bike.

“We have been campaigning for changes to the Highway Code rules for many years to make the requirements crystal clear to give enough space when overtaking a cyclist and to look before you open your car door.”

Road safety charity Brake’s campaigns director Joshua Harris added: “For far too long, the rules of our roads have prioritised motor vehicles over cycling and walking. We applaud the Government’s planned changes to the Highway Code as a welcome step in the right direction, but more must still be done.

“We need safer speed limits, greater investment in segregated cycle lanes and a justice system which keeps dangerous drivers off our roads.”

 New research by Transport Focus suggests that Highways England could do more for cyclists and pedestrians. The road user watchdog says inadequate signage, unsuitable design and poor maintenance on routes beside or across major A roads and motorways are areas in need of improvement for those in the saddle or on foot.

(Photograph: Sam Saunders and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence)