As far as I can see, the trouble with these "new rules" is that no one seemed inclined to enforce the old ones so what hope is there of these new ones making any difference at all.

The only hierarchy of the road seems to be one of bullying:

Cyclists bully pedestrians
Car drivers bully cyclists and pedestrians
Lorry drivers bully car drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

As for common sense, I'm not sure the human species is capable of it.

When I learned to drive, over 45 years ago, my instructor told me the number one rule of the road is: Everyone out there is an idiot - expect them to behave as such. It has served me well.

In Carlisle, the main drag for pubs and clubs, Botchergate, is closed to all traffic on Friday and Saturday nights. Every other hour, of every of the day, cyclists, car drivers and van/lorry drivers seem to be allowed to drive on the pavements. Pedestrians only get protection if they're pissed.

Also, I'd be interested know, when did the zig-zags at pedestrian crossings become "Designated parking for Greggs"? Has it been codified in the "new rules"?

Rant over - back to 'lurking'!