By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
There is anger over “crazy” plans for a new cycle path through residential streets in Gloucester as neighbours fear it will create road safety hazards and parking problems.
A consultation is underway as part of Gloucestershire County Council’s ambitious plan for a 26-mile cycle spine to link Bishop’s Cleeve with Stroud via Cheltenham and Gloucester.
However, the latest proposals for a stretch from Stroud Road to Tuffley Lane have sparked strong opposition from residents near the Oval.
There is concern putting a cycle route around the Oval is fraught with problems as it is already a very busy road. And one of the three options includes a one-way system which is seen as “crazy” by a local councillor.
Mhairi Ball, one of the residents, said neighbours are angry over the proposals. “We live on the slip road and have grave concerns about the health and safety problems this may present,” she said.
She attended the most recent consultation event this week and said council officers said they “would put signs up but couldn’t be responsible for all young people playing in the park”.
She added: “The residents were all saying that they have to drive really slowly there because there are always kids coming out of there.
“They told us that the one-way system was not a done deal, but we are not resting on our laurels.”
Fellow resident Lynda O’Connor thinks the idea of a one-way system around the Oval is ridiculous.
“It’s a nightmare. I cannot see why they are going ahead with it,” she said.
“If they make it a one-way system, where are residents supposed to park their cars?
“I think their minds are already made up. I think the people that think of these things don’t actually live in the area and they don’t think of the impact that it’s actually having on everybody else in the area.
“How many people actually want it and will be using that cycle route?
“I’m sure to God there is a better way of actually doing this.”
Bill Russell, who lives nearby, believes the plans are highly dangerous if a one-way system is introduced.
“God knows what will happen if we have fire,” he said.
“We have disabled people in the area and they get picked up. It’s going to block the road and nothing is going to get through.”
Sarah Matheou, another resident, supports improvements to cycling infrastructure but believes some of the council’s ideas are “a bit mad”.
She said there are certain parts of the existing cycle spine which are dangerous.
“The idea is good, but it’s the execution of it,” she said. “It has got to be done carefully to get it right.
Labour councillor Terry Pullen, who represents the Moreland area at Gloucester City Council, said he has been approached by residents who are angry about the proposals.
“They are right to be concerned as putting a cycle route around The Oval is fraught with problems,” he said.
“It is already a very busy road, with a tight curve and limited vision. Adding a cycle route could be very dangerous.
“There are three options including a one way system which is crazy. This will not only seriously inconvenience local people but will likely move traffic flows into neighbouring streets and increase congestion elsewhere. Parking is also already at a premium.
“Clearly the county council have not done their homework on this proposal, let alone taken the views of local people into account.”
Cllr Pullen added: “I am aware there is currently a consultation process happening and I am very keen that local people are genuinely consulted by the county council.
“It is vital that their views are genuinely listened to but more importantly, acted on.
“I would strongly urge local people to engage with the consultation which closes on September 23.”
The county council has been approached for comment.
Liberal Democrat councillor Roger Whyborn (Benhall and Up Hatherley), who is responsible for sustainable transport at Shire Hall, previously said the council recognises residents will have questions and concerns.
He said the cycle project aims to create safer and more accessible routes for everyday journeys, improve links between communities and key destinations, and support wider ambitions around sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.
“Getting the right balance between transport modes is key, so the engagement process gives people an opportunity to review the designs in detail, ask questions and tell us what they think,” he said.
“We want to hear from as many local residents, businesses, community groups and stakeholders as possible.”