There is to be a design review of the controversial stepped cycle lane in Keynsham High Street, Bath & North East Somerset Council has today announced.
It will take place this summer and follows repeated calls for action to be taken to stop the trips and falls that have seen dozens of people injured, some of them seriously, since it was introduced 15 months ago.
The council says that the design review will assess whether additional enhancements can be made to reduce trips and falls further, following on from painting the lane red last summer.
First though the council says that parking will be suspended in the High Street from next Monday (5th June) for nearly three weeks so that remedial works can be carried out to repair paving slabs and replace damaged bollards and cycle stands.
Additional street furniture will also be installed to protect the pavement from vehicle overrun in the future.
Cllr Paul Roper, the council’s Cabinet member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “The works to repair the broken paving slabs and replace cycle stands and bollards have been scheduled for some time. We are conscious of the concerns about trips and falls linked to the cycle lane and so it’s understandable that people may wonder what is happening when contractors arrive.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to reassure residents that we take the concerns extremely seriously, which is why we have already acted by introducing the red coloured cycle lane finish that has reduced the number of reported incidents significantly.
“A Stage 4 Road Safety Audit will follow the remedial works. Alongside the audit, the council will undertake a design review over the summer, to assess whether additional enhancements can be made to reduce trips and falls further. We recognise that pedestrian use within the High Street has changed as a result of a significant reduction in cars passing through. If action is needed we’ll consider the options.
“Ward councillors representing the High Street have been kept updated on this. We have also contacted traders to inform them about the repair works and we apologise for any disruption for businesses and residents during the works.”
The parking bays will be suspended until Saturday 24th June. The council says that access to the shops will be maintained and the pavement will remain open. Loading bays and the bus stop will remain in operation and the nearest car parks are at Ashton Way, by the leisure centre and in Station Road.
