'Optical illusion' cycle lane will stay - despite causing at least 76 injuries

26 September 2023 , 10:45

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The cycle lane in Keynsham near Bristol has been dubbed the "most perilous in Britain" (Image: SWNS)

A cycle lane notorious for its 'optical illusion' design will remain - despite causing at least 76 injuries.

Walkers strolling along Keynsham High Street near Bristol have repeatedly stumbled and tripped over a 'hidden' curb, which they claim looks like a flat line due to its white paint. In reality, it traverses an elevated pedestrian crossing.

Official statistics show that at least 76 people have reported falls on the cycle lane since it opened in March last year. However, it is believed that the actual figure could be significantly higher due to unreported incidents. The injuries sustained by individuals include fractures, lost teeth, and significant bruising.

Dubbed the "most perilous in Britain", locals hoped to have the lane removed. But a motion aimed at enhancing its safety has now been dropped. Keynsham councillors had previously proposed a cross-party plan to compel Bath and North East Somerset Council to investigate the costs of fixing the issue.

At least 76 people have reported falls on the cycle lane since it opened in March last year (SWNS)

The proposal was scheduled for a vote at a council meeting last week. However, the councillors have now withdrawn and postponed it, fearing it would be "torpedoed" by the administration. A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrat group said: "We understand the Keynsham Councillors decided to withdraw their motion whilst we await the Stage 4 safety audit.

Mind-bending optical illusion makes your brain 'adjust' after 10 seconds

“We’re taking reports of all falls seriously. The majority of incidents happened within the first six months of the scheme going in and the number of incidents is decreasing as people get used to the changes and in light of the amendments we have already made. We are listening and the Stage 4 road safety audit we commissioned will guide us. An example of an improvement we’ve already made is to introduce the red cycle lane finish last August."

A motion aimed at enhancing its safety has now been dropped (SWNS)

Following 46 reported injuries within just six months, the lane was re-painted red in August 2022. Locals who want the lane removed have previously shared their experiences. One person recounted: "I fell into the road last year, cutting my knee, twisting my ankle and ripping my jeans. The council were not very helpful or even asked if I was ok. They did suggest that I use the crossing next time."

Another added: "I tripped but manage to get my balance. Don't know whether it was the kerb or cycle lane." One person highlighted the frequency of such incidents, saying: "That's just the ones that have been reported.. it's a daily occurrence pretty much. Have seen some pretty nasty falls having worked in one of the shops on the High street."

One resident told of their near-miss while pushing a wheelchair, saying: "You just can't judge the step especially if you are distracted - a really poor design." Adding to the chorus of complaints, a partially sighted shopper said: "I went last week for a shopping trip, nightmare for people partially sighted. Glad I had my sister with me!!!"

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Katie Weston