Police in Edinburgh are undertaking a second week of activity as part of a road safety initiative to promote safer driving and cycling in the city centre.
The initiative launched last Monday, and over the past week officers have given advice to close to 200 motorists and cyclists regarding their behaviour on the roads.
One of the main issues identified is the numbers of motorists and cyclists failing to observe ‘no entry’ signs, particularity in Shandwick Place. On most occasions motorists have blamed their satellite navigation equipment for taking them down these routes, despite the onus being on them to read the signs.
There have also been a number of occasions where motorists and cyclists have been warned for failing to obey red lights, where cyclists have been warned about cycling on pavements, and where motorists have stopped or crept into the advanced cycle stop box – an offence punishable through a £100 fixed penalty and three points.
PC Stephen Kirk, from Police Scotland, said: “The first week of the initiative was aimed at educating road users whose behaviour on city centre roads warranted intervention, and over the past week we have been busy issuing advice to motorists and cyclists on how they can keep themselves and other road users safe.
“One of the main issues we have identified as far as motorists are concerned is the willingness to blame satellite navigation equipment for taking them down closed routes, despite it being incumbent on drivers to observe the signs.
“Likewise, we have identified a number of cyclists who have also used routes clearly marked ‘no entry’.
“In the week ahead we will be focusing more heavily on enforcement, and taking tough action against anyone we identify as repeat or blatant offenders.
“The ultimate aim of the initiative is to reduce road casualties in the city centre at a time of year where casualty numbers rise, particularly among cyclists.
“We have had a great response from people who are aware of the initiative, who have approached officers in the street and thanked us for our efforts.
“Police Scotland is committed to keeping people safe, and our aim over the week ahead is to identify and take action against road users whose behaviour puts themselves and others at risk.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
