A new cycle lane next to a war memorial in Inverness is creating major confusion at a popular city centre location.
Critics of the £58,000 project at Cavell Gardens are complaining it is encouraging more cyclists on to the Infirmary bridge over the River Ness – creating a potential danger to pedestrians – and is resulting in bike enthusiasts going the wrong way on roads once the short lane ends.
Ian Burnett, of the Inverness branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “There is some confusion. It is a busy area and I am surprised there has not been an accident. It wouldn’t be so bad if the cyclists obeyed the rules.
“They cycle over the bridge and this lane will result in more doing it. They don’t stick to the flow of traffic either, and they also need to slow down.”
People have also taken to social media to complain, withSusan Mathieson saying: “What on earth is going on at our lovely peaceful Cavell Gardens. Can’t they leave well alone.
“I’ve already seen a cyclist travelling the wrong way towards the traffic. Where does the cyclist [go] after this little stretch. Crackers and waste of time.”
Inverness Central Councillor Richard Laird said the new cycle lane should ultimately improve the situation in the area, but insisted many people remained confused by the issue of cycling on the bridge.
He said: “Cyclists are allowed to use Infirmary Bridge as it is on the Core Path Network, but they are asked to use their common sense when pedestrians are also on the bridge and get off the bikes and give way.”
A Highland Council spokeswoman said they were “aware of some concerns”, adding: “We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure cyclists, pedestrians and car users benefit from the works.
“As with any scheme, it may be that minor modifications are required as the changes bed in.”
