CBD scramble and pedestrian only phase crossings

A scramble crossing is a type of signalised intersection that:

• stops all vehicles at the same time
• allows people to cross in every direction, including diagonally
• eliminates conflicts between pedestrians and turning vehicles.

When vehicles receive their green light, they can move through the intersection without waiting for pedestrians crossing parallel to them.

Scramble crossings are used in cities across Australia and around the world. They have been shown to reduce crashes and improve safety in high foot traffic environments.

During the pedestrian phase:

• all vehicles are stopped
• people can cross in any permitted direction.

During the vehicle phase:

• people wait at the kerb
• vehicles move through the intersection without pedestrian conflict

The name refers to the way people can move freely in all directions while vehicles are stopped. This approach improves safety in busy pedestrian areas and is especially helpful for older people and those who may have reduced mobility.

No. Cyclists riding on the road or in a bike lane must stop at a red traffic light. They cannot ride through the intersection during the pedestrian phase and must wait for the green light to go straight through or turn.

A cyclist who dismounts before the stop line is treated as a pedestrian. They must still wait for the green light to cross the road and cannot walk their bike past the stop line when the light is red.

Yes, but only if they have not crossed the stop line while still on the road.

A cyclist may ride onto the footpath before the stop line, then use the crossing during the pedestrian phase. They may ride across the road (not diagonally), as long as they:

• travel slowly and safely
• give way to all pedestrians
• keep left of oncoming riders and pedestrians
• follow any local signs that restrict cycling on footpaths.

Yes. Some parts of the CBD have time-based restrictions on cycling on footpaths. When these restrictions apply, cyclists cannot use the footpath to cross at a scramble crossing during the pedestrian phase.

Yes. A cyclist may walk their bike across the crossing in any permitted direction during the pedestrian phase, provided they moved onto the footpath without crossing the stop line when the light was red.

The Transport Commissioner is the statutory authority responsible for traffic road rules and traffic signals in Tasmania. The Commissioner issues directions, approves installations, sets standards, and oversees the safe and efficient operation of traffic signals across the state.