Loughborough University

Loughborough University

Safety Assessments  

Background

Over the past 10 years, the student population of Loughborough University has increased by approximately 50%. The campus is currently used by some 12,000-15,000 students and staff, making it the size of a small town. 

The links with industry and businesses across the UK and beyond have also increased, along with the ever improving facilities for business, leisure and private purposes.  The University's growth has led to a sharp increase in pressure on the road and footway network across the campus, which will inevitably lead to a greater risk of potential accidents or even lead to serious or even fatal injuries.

Our involvement

There was therefore a greater need than ever for an evaluation of the safe use and accessibility of the campus network which takes into account the needs of the drivers of the motor vehicles and vulnerable road users (e.g. cyclists, pedestrians), especially those with sensory and mobility limitations.  The aim being to highlight the major issues before any serious incidents occur.

Also with the potential for any future developments planned, it was an ideal time for TMS to review the current road and footway network and learn from any issues highlighted, ensuring improvements are taken into account on planned redevelopments and any new site developments.

The purpose of the review was to identify the major safety and accessibility issues within the University campus road and footpath network.  The purpose also was to recommend remedial action to address those issues in particular those related to interactions between various types of road users (e.g. vehicle drivers and vulnerable road users).