British Cycling has hit out at a decision in the European Parliament to delay the introduction of safer lorry cabins for eight years.

In April the European Parliament voted to make safety a fundamental part of changes to lorry dimensions, allowing extra length to lorry cabs. However, some member states had reportedly called for a delay to the introduction of the potentially life-saving design improvements.

British Cycling and other organisations representing cyclists, pedestrians and sustainable transport wrote to the UK Government in May urging ministers to try to oppose the proposed delay in safer lorry design. Transport secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, agreed and supported the need for the changes to be made without delay.

However, on 5 June, the decision to delay the introduction of safer lorry cab designs for eight years was approved by European ministers on the Transport Council.

British Cycling campaigns manager, Martin Key, said: “HGVs are involved in a large proportion of cycling casualties.

"Due to design flaws beyond the driver’s control, cyclists are being killed simply because they can’t be seen. The European Parliament were very clear when they voted that they want these changes to come into force so this eight-year delay is indefensible.

"The proposed new regulations will help save the lives of cyclists, not only in the UK but across Europe and the sooner they are implemented the better. We will be working with a coalition of organisations to achieve the best outcome.”