Edinburgh residents rally to show their support for Spaces for People proposals

Residents have contacted the Edinburgh Evening News with messages of support for the Low Traffic Neighbourhood proposed for the East Craigs and Craigmount area.

Let us know what you think and join the conversation at the bottom of this article.

The traffic calming measures were first proposed in the Summer of 2020 but faced a legal challenge from residents group - Get Edinburgh Moving - that stalled their implementation.

Earlier this month an article revealed the results of an independent study carried out by those opposed to the proposals which appeared to show an overall rejection of the plans.

But since then Janis Ross-Williamson, Co chair of Low Traffic Corstorphine, has had an editorial published saying that not all of those with a stake in the game have had their voices heard.

As a result we have gathered opinions from those in support of some of the LTN measures.

Chris Young, a local resident, said: “I have to say, as a regular walker and driver in Corstorphine, I am in no doubt that these measures have and will continue to make the area more safe for walkers and active travellers. and in so doing will make the community a happier and healthier place to live in the future.

“I am regularly disheartened by the volume, speed, impatience and overall aggression of many drivers passing through the residential areas of this town in the city and the reluctance of many parents (myself included) to allow their children to freely navigate their way to primary schools like I used to at that age. It is a poor reflection of the state of pedestrian safety in our neighbourhoods.

LTN

He added that LTNs promise to reduce incursive, dangerous traffic whilst maintaining full access for residents and their service providers.

Kirsty Gilmour, is an East Craigs resident and said that her experience if that cars need to slow down in the area and motorists encouraged to pay more attention

She added: “My kids both walk to school and play outside and I'm sick of worrying that inconsiderate motorists are putting them at risk.

“We're facing a public health crisis after covid with lots of the population struggling with weight issues. If we can make our outdoor spaces more attractive for walking /cycling /wheeling it would help with that. Those that can should leave their cars at home and leave the roads clear for those who have no alternative but to drive.”

Diana Laing, is a supporter of the councils Spaces for People policies, she said: “Travelling by car in cities is unsustainable, especially single use car journeys for short distances. The councils are implementing the low traffic/SfP policies to keep our cities viable in the future.​

“They should be supported by the locals and support from the media would be beneficial. Not all policies make politicians popular. What is the alternative to trying to encourage sustainable transport in Edinburgh?”

In response to the positive feedback, councillor Lesley Macinnes, environment convener, said: “It’s always great to hear feedback on measures in place or proposed from residents across the city and we’ll be updating on plans for East Craigs shortly.”

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