A new consultation, open for 12 weeks from 12th August, will look at whether a new offence equivalent to causing death by careless or dangerous driving should be introduced for dangerous cyclists.

The plans to reduce the amount of dangerous cyclists follows a campaign from earlier this year, which looked at clamping down on dangerous drivers.

The motivation behind the new road safety laws is to reassure people that more is being done to make our roads safer, in a bid to encourage more of us to take to two wheels — or two feet — to get around.

The Department for Transport is also looking at updating parts of the Highway Code, including measures to counter the dangerous practice of ‘close passing’ which puts people off cycling, and would benefit other vulnerable road users like horse riders.

Cycling and Walking Minister Jesse Norman said: “In recent weeks we have announced a range of measures designed to protect vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. These include new measures to combat close passing, training for driving instructors, better collision investigation and £100 million in new investment through the Safer Roads Fund.

“Now we are taking further steps. These include a consultation on new cycling offences, further work on national guidance on cycling and walking infrastructure, and improvements to the Highway Code.

“All these measures are designed to support the continued growth of cycling and walking, with all the benefits they bring to our communities, economy, environment and society.”