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Let’s talk safer cycling 🚲

Blackpool is currently part way through a multi-million pound regeneration programme that aims to create more job opportunities, better transport, more modern streets and better places to shop, eat, stay and enjoy. 

As part of generating a brighter place to live and work, the council has secured funding from the central government Active Travel Fund to implement a cycle scheme on the A587 St Walburgas Road.

Residents are being asked for their views on the proposed cycle scheme that will run between Plymouth Road roundabout and Four Lanes End roundabout.

Many new cycle lanes are appearing up and down the country as part of the government’s policy to promote more walking and cycling in England. The aim of the proposed cycle scheme here in Blackpool is to promote cycling as a mode of travel, reduce traffic congestion and parking demand, promote cleaner air and improved health.

The route along St Walburgas is currently seen as challenging for people wishing to cycle because of the lack of protected cycle lanes. The route is spacious and includes an under-used dual carriageway section. This road space could possibly be reallocated  to cycling while keeping the pavements free for pedestrians.

Proposed changes

  • New segregated cycle lanes will be provided along the northbound and southbound route of St Walburgas Road. The cycle lanes will be segregated from vehicles by bollards to protect cyclists
  • The limited existing on-road cycle lanes which are currently without physical segregation will be replaced by the segregated route
  • To enable the segregated route to be provided, 24 hour no parking restrictions will be implemented along the entire length of the cycle lanes
  • A new toucan crossing to help pedestrians and cyclists cross St Walburgas Road safely will be provided outside St Mary’s Catholic Academy
  • A one-way entrance and exit will be implemented at the southerly end of Brendan Walk. The access at the northerly end of Brendan walk (Plymouth Road roundabout) will be permanently closed. This will create a safer corridor for cyclists along St Walburgas Road

What won’t change

  • Vehicle manoeuvring in and out of side roads and driveways will be unaffected by the proposals. Bollards will stop at junctions and driveways
  • Access to all driveways will be maintained
  • Existing zebra crossing at Four Lanes End roundabout will remain the same

Councillor Neal Brookes, Cabinet Member responsible for Enforcement, Public Safety, Highways and Transport said: “We welcome the views of all our residents on these proposals. We are keen to provide Blackpool residents with safe and protected cycling routes that other towns and cities across the country are enjoying. Not only will this scheme provide safer cycling for those that choose to use it, it will also help to reduce traffic, parking issues and provide a safer and more active way to travel – helping to improve overall health.”

You can give feedback on the scheme by visiting www.blackpool.gov.uk/Consultations and filling out a short survey before 27 August 2021. There will also be online focus groups for people to attend to discuss the proposals.

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