The Petitions Committee has one valid petition to look at later today which is to ban cycling on city centre pavements by cyclists over 12 years old.
There are only 64 signatures at this point in support of the petition which states:-
We request that tough measures are taken to prevent cyclists from cycling on pavements within the busy City Centre pavements, especially in the Tram Construction works areas, where metal fencing further restricts pavement width. There are many cyclists weaving through the pavements, where people with prams, buggies, wheelchairs and disabled scooters are trying to pass. People with walking difficulties, loss of hearing or sight are further placed in danger as they are less likely to be aware of a bicycle coming along a pavement from behind. Young children are also placed in danger, as are dog walkers. It is particularly bad around the Haymarket Station area where there is the additional danger towards holiday makers / tourists arriving with bulky and heavy cases, totally unaware that cyclists are sharing the pavement. It creates a very bad first impression of the City, especially alongside the construction works for the trams.
It is suggested that Fines should be imposed on those flouting a ban in the same way that fines are imposed on motorists. Younger children, especially on bicycles with stabilisers or tricyles cannot be expected to join traffic on roads, hence requesting the ban on cyclists over the age of 12.
The petition needs 500 signatures before it can be considered by the committee.
The other petition which is currently being considered by the council is for the introduction of a dedicated bus service to Dumbiedykes. This has moved from being a petition to the Transport Committee which is exploring all options with Lothian Buses.
All papers for the meeting which is also aired on the council’s webcast service are here.
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