West Derby Road cycle lane removed for causing ‘major congestion’

Picture credit – Liverpool City Council

A pop-up cycle lane which has caused ‘major congestion’ for residents and bus users in Liverpool has been removed.

The lane on West Derby Road heading towards the city centre was put in place without consultation and, following further issues caused by a nearby sinkhole opening up just days ago, the council has decided to close it with plans to find an alternative route.

Cllr Daniel Barrington, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Transport and Environment, said today: “I’ve had a number of concerns since the pop-up cycle lane on West Derby Road was first introduced.

#VIDEO | “I’ve had a number of concerns since the West Derby Road pop-up cycle lane was introduced last year.”

Cabinet member Cllr Daniel Barrington explains today’s decision.

Work to remove the city centre-bound lane begins at 7pm this evening. pic.twitter.com/EDrBGkhQZG

— Liverpool City Council (@lpoolcouncil) July 27, 2021

“It was brought in without consultation with local residents, businesses and councillors. It has caused major congestion and has disadvantaged bus users along this route.

“When I became cabinet member for climate change, transport and environment, I ordered a review to take place on the pop-up cycle lane infrastructure, with the aim of finding a way to create cycling provision while retaining two lanes of traffic. I have always said if that was not possible, then I would remove the cycle lane in both directions.”

He went on: “That review has not concluded, but with the opening up of the sinkhole on Prescot Road last Friday night, a decision has had to be made now. I have decided that the inbound cycle lane – heading towards the city centre – will be removed.

“We will still look at alternative routes for cycling, but I will not agree to a cycle lane being reintroduced on West Derby Road that prohibits two lanes of traffic.”

Councillor Barrington said he wanted to investigate Cycle Route 5 which goes through Newsham Park, and what improvements could be made there.