Cyclists take to street to support £6m cycle 'superhighway'

AROUND 200 cyclists took to the streets this morning to show support for a proposed £6 million cycle 'superhighway' stretching across central Edinburgh.
Cyclists in support of a cycle path from Roseburn to Haymarket organised by Henry Whaley and Green MSP Alison Johnstone. Picture; Greg MacveanCyclists in support of a cycle path from Roseburn to Haymarket organised by Henry Whaley and Green MSP Alison Johnstone. Picture; Greg Macvean
Cyclists in support of a cycle path from Roseburn to Haymarket organised by Henry Whaley and Green MSP Alison Johnstone. Picture; Greg Macvean

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Campaigners and residents cycled from Charlotte Square to Roseburn during the rush hour to demonstrate the importance of the plans - with Green MSPs and several councillors turning up to show their support.

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But a counter-protest of shop keepers and Roseburn locals gathered to meet them at the finish line, carrying placards emblazoned with anti-cycle track slogans.

Picture; Greg MacveanPicture; Greg Macvean
Picture; Greg Macvean

Blueprints set to go before the council tomorrow could see the creation of a new cycle route linking the east and west of the city, plugging a crucial gap in the Capital’s cycle network.

The finished scheme would run from Roseburn to Leith Walk, slicing through the city centre.

But a section of the plans through Roseburn Terrace has caused mass protest from residents who think the narrowing of the road and reduction in parking will destroy local shops.

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Alternative plans aimed at addressing this – dubbed Option B – show cyclists diverted away from Roseburn Terrace via Roseburn Place and Roseburn Street. But cycling campaigners argue Option B is a flawed compromise.

The scheme will go before city leaders tomorrow morning.