New changes to the Highway Code that put pedestrians at the top of “road user hierarchy” have been announced by the Transport Secretary.

The proposed changes, due to receive parliamentary approval in autumn, will give pedestrians priority at zebra crossings and junctions and aim to increase awareness about the dangers of speeding.

It comes as part of a £338 million package to boost cycling and walking across the country from the Department for Transport (DfT), which is aiming to encourage the public to make “sustainable travel choices” to make “air cleaner and cities greener”.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Millions of us have found over the past year how cycling and walking are great ways to stay fit, ease congestion on the roads and do your bit for the environment.

“As we build back greener from the pandemic, we’re determined to keep that trend going by making active travel easier and safer for everyone.

“This £338 million package marks the start of what promises to be a great summer of cycling and walking, enabling more people to make those sustainable travel choices that make our air cleaner and cities greener.”

The DfT have said that the new Highway Code will put pedestrians atop a ‘hierarchy of road users’, placing more responsibility for safety on motorists.

Stephen Edwards, interim chief executive at everyday walking charity Living Streets, said: “The Highway Code currently treats children walking to school and lorry drivers as if they are equally responsible for their own or other people’s safety. These changes will redress that balance.

“People walking cause the least road danger but are often left paying the price.

“Road users who have potential to cause the greatest harm should take the greatest share of responsibility to reduce the danger they pose.”