How do you use Hemel Hempstead’s 'Dutch-style' roundabout?

Road users are gearing up to brave a town's new "Dutch-style" roundabout.

The unique highway feature was unveiled in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, on Tuesday.

Running along Boundary Way, it became the country's fourth such roundabout after the first opened in Cambridge in 2020.

But how can you avoid breaking into a cold sweat trying to navigate the new route?

Golden rules

Pedestrians and cyclists have the right of way

The golden rule for these roundabouts is that pedestrians have priority, and both cars and bikes need to give way to them.

Cyclists are next in line, and cars must stop for them.

Ultimately, if your mode of transport has more power, it comes with more responsibility.

Layers

Like an onion, there are layers. The outside of the roundabout is used by pedestrians, and there are zebra crossings positioned on each exit.

The middle ring is painted green for the cyclists, and those on bicycles should navigate around it clockwise.

The heart of the roundabout is for the drivers, and it should look reassuringly familiar to motorists.

Why are they 'Dutch'?

Cycling is arguably more popular than driving in the Netherlands

These "Dutch-style" layouts are named so because they were created in the Netherlands.

The cycling culture east of the North Sea is greater than in the UK, with bicycles used almost more than cars.

The roundabouts have made waves on UK shores - Cambridge's development was followed by Sheffield in 2024 and Chichester in 2025.

Highways chiefs implement them to offer what they believe is a safer and greener passage for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Yet that safety has been called into question by some.

Cambridge's roundabout had more collisions in the three years since it was built compared to its predecessor over the same time period.

Time will tell if Hertfordshire County Council's development proves to be a success.

But one thing is for sure: Lycra is optional for all users.