Flawed Middlesbrough cycle lane, costing £1.7M, to be removed after public backlash. Council cites design issues.
The cycle lane aimed to promote active travel, but a public consultation showed support for removal. Councillor Gavigan cited a flawed design, clarifying that cycling is still part of their transport plan. The issue was the design of this specific lane.
The cycle lane caused controversy and accidents, with dividers between it and the road being the primary problem. Mayor Cooke welcomed the removal decision, stressing the importance of better consultation for future projects, as the community expressed strong feelings about it.
One person called the cycle lane a waste of money, suggesting pedestrianizing Linthorpe Road instead. Another person suggests removing the dividers only, and a commenter agrees the dividers are dangerous, questioning their need in the first place.
Someone thinks safer routes exist for cyclists and believes cyclists should avoid Linthorpe Road. A person called it a ridiculous waste of millions, while another wants someone held accountable for the costs.
One resident noted a prior consultation where most respondents disliked the initial plan. Despite changes being made, the plan proceeded anyway. A commenter feels the transport vision is now ruined.