News / Whiteladies Road
Outrage at plans to scrap ‘key’ cycle lane
A cycle lane in Bristol could be removed because the council says it causes flooding – to the outrage and confusion of cyclists who use it.
Part of Whiteladies Road, which connects the city centre to the north west, has flooded several times in recent years. It was hit with flash floods in December due to Storm Barra.
The proposed solution is to install wider footpaths, a drainage channel and grass verges that will soak up rainwater.
is needed now More than ever
As part of the plans, under consultation, Bristol City Council wants to scrap the painted cycle lanes on the section between Tyndall’s Park Road and Queen’s Road.
Important cycle lane will be removed to “alleviate flooding”
The cycle lane on this key route to the hospital and university carries half the traffic during rush hours
Surely, build a raised protected cycle lane over the tree roots?
@BristolTreeFora pic.twitter.com/07xOhXy4KU
— Vassili (@VassiliPapa) May 15, 2022
But Vassili Papastavrou, the secretary of the Bristol Tree Forum and a cyclist, said the proposals would put bike riders in danger.
He Tweeted: “Cyclists would have to compete with traffic on the narrowed carriageway. Injuries or deaths are likely and those proposing this crazy scheme need to own that.”
Bristol Cycling, a membership group to “make Bristol great for cycling”, raised similar concerns.
In their objection, they commented: “Removing the bike lanes and narrowing the road as is proposed it will undoubtedly make cycling this section (between Queens Road and traffic lights at Tyndall Park Road) more dangerous, but it will also make the creation of a continuous safe cycling route along the road in the future more difficult.
“Furthermore, it completely flies in the face of Bristol’s declared climate emergency and net zero 2030 goal to discourage cycling and e-scooting in this way.”
The cycle lane on both sides of the street in Clifton could be removed under a flood prevention scheme – photo: Betty Woolerton
Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport and Labour councillor Avonmouth and Lawrence Weston, called the plans a “last resort” – but ones that need to be considered.
He said: “A wider pavement would allow us to resolve the problems with flooding, while making the footpath safer and more accessible for all.
“I encourage everyone to take a look at the proposals and let us know your thoughts, to make sure we get the right solution for the city.”
The consultation closes on June 8.
All photos: Betty Woolerton
Read more: Is Bristol a cycle-friendly city?
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