Edinburgh and Glasgow city councils have confirmed they are discussing the innovations with the Scottish Government’s Transport Scotland agency and cycle and footpath developers Sustrans.

The move follows the lead of cities such as Berlin and countries like New Zealand which are redrawing road markings to give more room for cycles.

It also comes after a significant increase in cycling being recorded in Scotland since road traffic fell by 75 per cent because of the lockdown.“

Once restrictions do begin to ease, it will be crucial that walking and cycling continue to be safe and convenient modes of travel that are good for health, air quality and traffic congestion. “

Edinburgh City Council leader Adam McVey told The Scotsman: “We are actively considering ways to help people to safely walk and cycle, both in the present circumstances, and as things hopefully change in the coming months.

“As part of this, we are in close communication with the Scottish Government and Sustrans.

Pinch points

“Any new measures will be announced as early as possible.

“In the meantime, we are aware there are a number of pinch points across the city, and would ask everyone to show understanding and awareness of each other.”

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “As the cabinet secretary [Michael Matheson] has confirmed, we are already in discussions with Sustrans Scotland in terms of how we could help support local authorities to reallocate road space and open up more streets to active travel.

“We will of course prove a more detailed update as any proposals are developed and inform Parliament and key stakeholders at the appropriate time of any significant updates.”

John Lauder, the Scotland-based deputy chief executive of Sustrans, said: “Given the Covid-19 crisis, there is a clear call among members of the public to have more space to take essential journeys, including exercise on foot and by bike while still observing safe social distancing.

“Sustrans Scotland are in discussions with Transport Scotland on how we can support local authorities to reallocate road space to allow safer walking and cycling in this period.”

Delighted

Another cycling group applauded the initiative.

Jim Densham, Cycling UK’s campaigns and policy manager for Scotland, said: “We’re delighted Glasgow and Edinburgh are looking to introduce temporary cycle paths and we hope that other local authorities will follow suit.

“We have seen more people out riding their bikes during lockdown, enjoying the quieter streets and cleaner air.

“As restrictions ease, it’s vital we help people to maintain their newly-formed healthy habits, and continue to experience the many benefits from being more active.

“That needs extra space on roads for cycling and walking.”

Source: Edinburgh News