Council ditches plans for new Blackpool cycle lanes after they prove unpopular

The scheme, which was revealed by the council last July, would have seen segregated cycle lanes on St Walburga's Road, between the Plymouth Road roundabout in Layton and the Four Lanes End roundabout, close to Blackpool Victoria Hospital, with bollards to protect cyclists from traffic.

But a council survey of 252 people found more than 55 per cent were against the proposals, while a report said people "who lived on St Walburga’s were vehemently against the scheme".

Of the 99 cyclists who responded to consultation, 43 per cent "were already satisfied with the cycle provision along the route."

It has been decided instead to spend around £20,000 from the council's highways budget on upgrading existing cycling provision on St Walburga's Road.

The report adds this will take into account "the feedback from cyclists who use the route."

Money from the government's Active Travel Fund, which was to have been spent on the original project, could now be invested into the Blackpool Wheel proposal instead.

If it goes ahead, this would provide a 24 mile route round the borough including the Promenade for cycling, walking and running.

The decision was brought before the council's tourism, economy and communities scrutiny committee on Wednesday March 30.

Councillors said they welcomed investment in cycling but warned cyclists must stick to the highway code.

Coun Maxine Callow said: "I have seen many cyclists in Blackpool riding their bikes on pavements.

"Some are on mobile phones, riding with one hand and they don't seem to have bells. If you are walking along, or are a dog walker, it is dangerous.

"As a councillor, I have had a lot of complaints."

She added: "We want to encourage cycling as it is healthy, but we also have to think of pedestrians."

Coun Neil Brookes, cabinet member for enforcement, public safety, highways and transport, said the emphasis was on creating "segregated cycling routes so hopefully cyclists are away from pedestrians and other road users.

"At St Walburga's, the plan is to highlight the cycle routes even more."

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