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Quiet Lanes

Quiet Lanes are a network of roads that are suitable for all road users: walkers, cyclists, horseriders and drivers.

When roads in an area are turned into Quiet Lanes, the aim is to:

  • preserve the character of a country lane
  • make a county lane more attractive to walkers, cyclists, horse riders
  • encourage drivers to think about other road users
  • allow the road to be used for a suitable purpose

Why do we need Quiet Lanes?

There is now more traffic than ever on countryside roads, and traffic levels are likely to increase. This means that roads that were once easy for walkers, cyclists and horseriders to use are becoming unpleasant and difficult.

The increase in traffic also sometimes damages the wildlife, verges and peacefulness of rural lanes.

A Quiet Lane can provide a more welcoming environment for all road users. Residents and visitors can choose to get out of the car, the local characteristics of an area can be preserved, commuter/freight traffic can be kept on more appropriate roads.

Can the road I live on be a Quiet Lane?

A Quiet Lane initiative covers a wider area than just a single road. The concept of Quiet Lanes is aimed at identifying networks of minor rural roads and public rights of way. These would be roads that can be used by local residents to access shops and amenities, or for making local journeys to work or school without using a car.

It is important that Quiet Lanes are created as part of an overall transportation strategy - one that allows non-local traffic to be directed along appropriate alternative routes.

Are there any Quiet Lanes in Kent?

The Greensand Ridge Quiet Lanes scheme is one of two National Demonstration Projects. Read more information on the Greensand Ridge Quiet Lanes scheme website - this link will open in a new window.

Copyright Kent County Council 2008