Views sought on new segregated bike lane
Elm Grove plans to be discussed
VIEWS are being sought on the city’s first potential fullysegregated bike lane.
Residents, businesses and cyclists are being asked to share their thoughts on a new temporary cycle lane along Elm Grove and Kings Road, in Southsea, which will replace and expand on an existing non-segregated one.
If plans receive enough support the lanes will run along both sides of the road and on-street parking will be removed — although loading bays, bus stops and disabled parking will still be provided.
It comes as part of a wider move to transform Portsmouth into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city through the implementation of new bike lanes and low traffic neighbourhoods. These schemes will all be funded by an emergency active travel fund grant from government.
Councillor Lynne Stagg, Portsmouth City Council’s traffic and transport boss, encouraged people to have their say on the plans.
‘Improving active travel is essential within Portsmouth especially during the pandemic and I would encourage residents, businesses and all users of the route to have their say,’ she said.
‘We may not be able to accommodate everyone’s wishes in full, however, we want to give you the opportunity to have your say so we can make this a success.’
The designs to be considered by residents have been shaped by initial feedback that was requested from businesses and residents along the roads earlier this month.
However, some concerns have been raised about how the loss of on-street parking could effect the area.
Tory spokesman for transport, Cllr Simon Bosher, said; ‘We do seriously need to look at how we promote green travel — including cycling — so it’s right we should be looking at segregated routes where possible to protect people.
‘But we are trying to introduce these in the south of Portsmouth where there are parking zones that have different rules — some are 24-hour and some operate for two hours a day. It’s a hodgepodge and it’s going to confuse people wanting to go to the shops and restaurants.’
If the lane is implemented, it is planned a review will be carried out within six weeks.
For more information and to take part in the survey visit portsmouth.gov.uk/elmgrove.