Rivals in row over cycle route set to stage protests

CAMPAIGNERS for and against a £9 million “cycle superhighway” in Edinburgh are set to stage rival demonstrations.

Supporters of the proposed east-west segregated cycle route are taking part in mass cycle rides in the capital today. However, there will be a counter-demonstration of residents and traders opposed to the cycle track who will line the pavement along the route with their arms folded.

Campaigners against the track, who have put forward an alternative “Roseburn Vision” focused on off-road routes, will also gather to challenge cyclists’ support for the scheme.

The events have been organised on the eve of a Transport Committee meeting when councillors will be asked to vote in favour of the plans, which would link Roseburn to Leith Walk.

Opponents say the loss of road space would create congestion and mean the end for many local business.

Meanwhile, supporters insist that only a direct, protected route through the capital will deliver significant growth in the number of cyclists.

Peter Gregson, one of the Roseburn residents opposing the cycleway plan, said: “For most of the cyclists, this will be their first time to this part of town and as such is a good opportunity for those against to highlight to them why this scheme is a bad idea.”

However, campaign group Spokes believes the plans are a potential “game-changer”. It said: “It could attract many new people to use bikes for day-to-day travel, including commuting, shopping and leisure visits, and it forms the basis for future expansion to a much wider high-quality city centre cycle route network.”