Lockdown has cemented need for 20mph zones, group says

A community group set up to turn Cupar into a thriving, environmentally friendly town says the pandemic has strengthened its campaign for 20mph limits on the area’s roads.

In an open letter to Fife Council, Sustainable Cupar argues the lockdown has only emphasised the need for better cycling and walking provision, as well as the need to discourage the use of motor vehicles which produce pollution and deter active travel.

The organisation had launched a campaign for 20mph zones in and around Cupar town centre prior to the coronavirus crisis and Gordon Pay, Sustainable Cupar chairman, feels people’s experiences of the past few months has strengthened their case.

“Covid-19 has moved many issues on, including 20mph limits,” he said.

“Perth and Kinross Council, for instance, has made the whole of Perth city centre 20mph.

“Sustainable Cupar sees no good reason why we cannot do the same in Cupar. Lockdown seems to have changed the public mood considerably.

“20mph signs and planters to restrict some roads are not big infrastructure, big-budget items. They can however make a big, radical difference to how safe people feel to get on their bikes.

“Dundee City Council has already submitted a second bid to Sustrans for the Spaces for People funding the government has recently made available.

“Sustainable Cupar has worked with Fife Council on cycling and walking routes for a number of years now, and are happy to help Fife Council with a more ambitious approach for the better infrastructure people want for these.”

Picture: Steve MacDougall. Gary Paterson, left, of Sustainable Cupar and Andrew Morrison of Cycling Scotland.