Cyclists REFUSE to use new cycle lane because it is ‘too confusing’ – but do they have a point?
FURIOUS cyclists have refused to use "totally unnavigable" cycle lanes because they are "too confusing".
Riders have branded new bike lanes in Burton, Staffs., as "a waste of time" and money.
The cyclists argue the routes are too complicated because they make them travel from the road to the cycle lane then onto a pavement, before eventually returning to the road.
John Gregory Lamb, 77, who has cycled for 50 years, claimed fellow cyclists will ignore the Burton system.
He said: "As a keen cyclist I welcome the provision of designated cycle routes which generally promote safety to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
"However having suffered over three months of delay and traffic lights, I eagerly regarded the completed work.
"Having talked to other bike users, the popular consensus is why bother? The new works are too complicated and designed to cause aggravation not ease of access."
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He added: "It is totally unnavigable. It is another case where the council has jumped in and wasted thousands of tax payers' hard earned cash without the necessary consideration."
The council said the new segregated system was designed for cyclists' overall safety by reducing traffic and minimising conflict arising with other motorists.
David Williams, cabinet member for highways and transport at Staffordshire County Council, said: "The new segregated cycle route will benefit cyclists of all ability levels and encourage more inexperienced cyclists to use their bikes.”
However, Mr Lamb claimed the widened pavement has only encouraged cars and vans to park there and blocks cyclists from using it.
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He said: "I have tried it and it is difficult. Cyclists will ignore it. Other cyclists have told me it is a waste of time."
New cycle lanes have also made motorists mad in Stoke-on-Trent, where the council expanded an existing three foot wide bike lane.
Russell, a self-employed construction worker, who drives along the road every day said: "Cyclists don’t use the damn thing anyway. They've just put new cycle lanes in and the kerb is raised.
"Cars keep hitting them as they're just in the middle of the road."
It is now possible for motorists to be fined for overtaking cyclists if they do not allow at least 1.5 metres when passing them - but by how much?
