New lane for cyclists blocked by parked cars
A NEW lane designed for cyclists is already being blocked by parked cars, despite not yet being completed.
Cardiff’s first segregated cycleway is being used by drivers to park their cars, a shocking video shows.
The video has been obtained by our WalesOnline website.
The cycleway on Senghennydd Road is one of five new lanes which have been created in Cardiff city centre.
Cardiff Cycle City, a cycling group in Cardiff, caught the footage of the parked cars while testing out a completed section of the route.
The video shows the cyclist having to mount the central reservation to avoid three parked cars, as well as swerving around pedestrians.
Unfortunately, until the cycleway is completely finished, the council are unable to take any action against those parking within the lane.
The route must be signposted as a cycleway, and lines must be inserted onto it, before any restrictions are enforceable by the council.
Gwenda Owen, chair of Cardiff City Cycle, said: “This is what we’ve all been waiting for, but this sort of infrastructure is completely different for Cardiff.
“I think that once it’s used as a cycle route exclusively then this will stop. It’s a fantasic facility and I think with the right communication then it could be really successful.”
“I’ve taken photos myself; not long ago a van was caught using it to do deliveries.
“I think that we need to be realistic in some regards, and the lane isn’t open yet, but these drivers need to be mindful that they will have to find a different way to do these deliveries - otherwise it will be chaos in peak times.”
The cycle group members believe that the situation will improve once the signage is up and the council can enforce penalties.
“The council are aware of the issue but until it’s finished then there’s not much that can be done. Once it’s finished then the relevant authorities will be able to take action against those who are parking their cars,” said Gwenda.
“Maybe some people don’t realise it’s a cycle lane, or maybe others are just parking there until they can’t get away with it any longer - I’ve heard the same car has been parked there for days.”
A spokesman for Cardiff Council said: “Traffic Enforcement Officers are monitoring the situation on Senghennydd Road. The scheme is now nearing completion and enforcement action will be taken against motorists who park in this cycle track. If there is a requirement, these vehicles can be towed away at significant cost to the motorist.
“We would also like to advise all pedestrians for their own safety, to use the footways rather than walk down the cycle lane.”