Overview
- A new stop has been painted into the only remaining traffic lane on Castle Gates/Castle Foregate, with a short cycle lane and a tiny crossing replacing the former second lane.
- Local business owner Martin Monahan launched a petition that has surpassed 2,500 signatures calling for removal of the cycle lane and relocation of the 'floating' stop.
- Residents report regular hold-ups and warn the design could hinder emergency vehicles leaving the nearby fire station, with safety concerns for cyclists and boarding passengers.
- Deputy leader Alex Wagner says the scheme was set by the previous Conservative administration and that funding conditions limit major alterations while officers review legalities and emergency access.
- The council points to signal changes at Smithfield Road and early data suggesting some journeys via Chester Street have improved, advising drivers to check live traffic before travel.