Bus drivers in the capital are to test new safety systems that alert them to the presence of cyclists and pedestrians passing close by. Transport for London announced on Friday that a six week trial of the technology is to start later this month.

Four buses fitted with sensors will be tested on two routes frequented by high numbers of vulnerable road users: the 25 between Oxford Street and Ilford via Mile End and the 73 from Victoria to Stoke Newington via King's Cross.

Two systems will be trialled, known as 'CycleEye' and 'Cycle Safety Shield', both of which provide an audible alert to the driver if they pass close to a cyclist or pedestrian. A report detailing the findings of the trial and suggested next steps is to be published later this year.

London's Deputy Mayor for Transport Isabel Dedring said: “This is a great example of using the latest technology to further improve safety for road users. If this trial proves successful we will look to roll it out further across London's fleet."

Transport for London's managing director of surface transport Leon Daniels added: "This forthcoming trial will build on a positive trend we have seen in reducing serious injuries on London's streets."

According to Transport for London the number of cyclists and pedestrians killed or seriously injured in a collision involving a bus in the capital fell by 38% in 2013 compared to the previous year.

(Photo: Dave M Photography)

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