‘Anguish’ over bike lane refusal

SIR, – Far from everyone giving a “sigh of relief ” (P&J September 28) there will be a “cry of anguish” from people who want to cycle in Aberdeen, following the news the council has thrown out plans to create a pop-up cycle lane on Ellon Road.

It seems in this case a vocal minority who want to prioritise motor vehicles has trumped the safety of vulnerable road users.

The Ellon Road pop-up lane was designed to help people keep to social distancing guidelines as they walk or cycle. It was supposed to be temporary and therefore adaptable, so it’s disappointing that this scheme has been ditched even before a trial period.

A surge in cycling in Scotland was triggered by quieter and safer streets during lockdown, bringing health and wellbeing benefits for many. These positives will be lost unless we provide safe space on the road for people to pedal. Healthy, safe, lowcarbon, less polluting, active lifestyles won’t just happen on their own. And let’s not forget that encouraging people out of their cars and on to bikes means fewer vehicles causing congestion for those that need to drive.

We need to plan a new normal, trial the options, and take steps which not everyone will agree with. It’s a shame the Ellon Road pop-up lane couldn’t be that first step.

Jim Densham, Campaigns and Policy Manager for Scotland, Cycling UK