Car curb plan to boost cyclists

Cars would be restricted to create more space for cyclists

Cars are to be re-routed through Bristol City Centre under plans to boost the number of cyclists.

The council wants to double the number of people cycling in the city every day, from 20,000 to 40,000, by 2011.

New traffic lights on Prince Street bridge would allow only alternative one-way access for cars, improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

The proposals, which are part of the Cycling City scheme, will be discussed at a meeting next week.

A council spokesman said Prince Street bridge had "a slim pavement on one side only and poses a danger for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists".

Councillor Mark Bradshaw (Lab) said: "The city council is prepared to take some tough decisions, such as tackling safety concerns on Prince Street Bridge, to improve access for those who have made the welcome choice to travel more by walking, cycling or public transport.

Off-road link

"The Cycling City proposal will see the introduction of more space for cyclists and pedestrians on the same side as the existing footpath, with traffic lights providing alternative one-way working for motorists - carefully managed to keep traffic moving smoothly during peak hours."

Other plans include a new "off-road" route linking the city centre with Lockleaze, via a new path between Hopetown Road in St Werburghs and Muller Road and a cycle path which would encourage cyclists to travel into the city centre from south Bristol via Hartcliffe Way.

Mr Bradshaw added: "Our success in becoming the first cycling city also brings with it the promise of £11m of new money by the government to make Greater Bristol an even better and safer place to cycle."

The proposals will be considered by the city council's cabinet when it meets on Thursday, 30 October.