'Ridiculous' new cycle lane means bikes ride into 'traffic on blind bend'

09 June 2023 , 13:47

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A resident claimed cyclists had to ride into oncoming traffic (Image: Edinburgh Live)

A new cycle lane has been branded "ridiculous" by users claiming it means they must ride "into oncoming traffic on a blind bend".

The road layout has been put in place in the Leith area of Edinburgh in recent days and has been immediately blasted by locals.

One cyclist said that it was an attempt to solve a problem by simply putting a "dab of paint" and means cyclists must ride 'into oncoming traffic on a blind bend'.

Bruce Kinnaird Scott said: "As a cyclist, the idea of cycling on cobbles isn't ideal.

"To be expected to ride into oncoming traffic on a blind bend suggests the council are simply paying lip service to a much wider problem. There are simply too many people and not enough space to adequately manage traffic safely. A dab of paint isn't the solution."

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The new lane was blasted as "ridiculous" (Google Street View)

Edinburgh Council has said the change is part of a "trial", and looks to reduce traffic flow while leading to a "better, safer and more connected cycling experience".

The changes on Water Street comes along with bollards appearing in Leith, as the area becomes a Low Traffic Neighbourhood, reported EdinburghLive.

Marsha King, who also lives in the area, said: "The new ‘cycle lane’ is ridiculous.

"The painted sign for the bike to drive towards the oncoming one way traffic, perfectly sums up the shambolic changes to many of Edinburgh’s roads."

But Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, defended the plan reportedly said: “These measures allow cyclists to ride in both directions on a street that is one-way for cars.

Edinburgh Council said the change is part of a "trial" (Edinburgh Live)

"We’re introducing it on a number of roads throughout the city and this particular street is part of the Leith Connections project. It’s a trial, and we’re keen to gather views from cyclists and road users to see how they find it.

"The painted lines complement other changes we’ve made nearby to reduce traffic flow – which incidentally makes improvements like this possible – and the hope is that it will lead to a better, safer and more connected cycling experience overall.”

The update comes at the same time as other changes in the area, to make Leith a Low Traffic Neighbourhood and incentivise walking and cycling.

This includes traffic restrictions and 'de-cluttering' pavements.

Chas Booth, Green councillor for Leith, said of the changes: "This project has the potential to significantly improve safety for people on foot, in wheelchairs and cycling.

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"It will also help tackle air pollution and congestion in Leith and help cut climate emissions from transport."

Lee Dalgetty