The Guernsey Road Users Network has held a demonstration highlighting the use of Route Tranquille as a peaceful and quieter alternative for road users.
The collective’s campaign aims to raise awareness of the 15mph recommended speed limit and the hierarchy of road users on Ruette Tranquilles.
The campaign has launched this weekend to coincide with the start of British Summer Time.
Ruette Tranquilles are quiet, narrow lanes in Guernsey intended for shared use by pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, and lastly, motorists.
Motorists are being urged to remember they must drive appropriately on Ruette Tranquilles, considering other users of the narrow lanes, along with the potential for slippery surfaces or other potential hazards like potholes and debris.
The Guernsey Road Users Network – GRUN – is made up of members of the Guernsey Motor Trade Association, the Better Journey Project, Traffic and Highway Services, Living Streets Guernsey, the Guernsey Bicycle Group, and the Health Improvement Commission.
Together they are calling for improved signage and traffic calming measures at intersections between Ruette Tranquilles and main roads, and they want to emphasise mutual respect, and the enjoyment of Guernsey’s scenic roads for all.
They’re also calling for a discussion about the future of the network.
The campaign was launched on Friday with a demonstration at a Ruette des Touilletes featuring many of those backing the calls.
Chair of the Guernsey Road Users Network, Jennifer Merrett, said the campaign launch date was chosen specifically.
“As the clocks spring forward, bringing warmer weather mixed with more daylight hours , it is timely to remind ourselves of the respect we all need to use when enjoying one of our unique features to Guernsey road network; Ruette Tranquilles.
“We all need to be aware of and respect the recommended 15MPH speed limit so that we can all enjoy them.”
Robert Cornelius, the President of the Guernsey Motor Trade Association, added; “Motorists can still use the Ruettes Tranquilles, but are urged to abide by all the recommendations and speed limit set out on these routes to make sure everyone is safe.”
Mark Smith, from the Better Journey Project, stated; “Ruette Tranquilles offer those who chose to use them, a quieter, less stressful and quite often more direct route to a destination. Used as part of the commute, they can result in a Better Journey to work avoiding traffic queues.
“Whilst the option of riding along Ruette Tranquilles is available there are sometimes when the network is not always suitable and riders will choose to use the main roads. In winter the rural lanes can quite often be very muddy and have a covering of slippery leaves, the network doesn’t always get you where you want to and the networks are used an alternative route by motorists.”
Paul James, a Road Safety Officer for Traffic and Highway Services said: “Guernsey’s Ruettes Tranquilles network are often, as the name suggests, the island’s most characteristic tranquil, narrow and winding lanes. As such they are not and never have been suitable for large volumes or fast moving traffic.
“They are however ideally suited for those vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders to travel and enjoy as a calm and safe space. It is important for all motorists to respect these areas and plan their routes accordingly, following approved diversion routes and not using these lanes unnecessarily.
“By all road users leaving enough time for their journey and taking the most suitable route for their mode of transport, even if it is not the most direct route, everyone can arrive at their destination in a timely, mindful and safe way.”
Living Streets Guernsey added: “The slow-moving traffic, combined with priority given to walkers and cyclists, makes these routes ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the stress or dangers of speeding vehicles. The 15 mph speed limit on these lanes isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a critical feature that helps to create a safer environment for all users.”