MORE than 100 people have signed an online petition against plans to transform Ardrossan’s active travel network.
Sustrans Scotland, in partnership with North Ayrshire Council and Ardrossan Community Development Trust, launched the Ardrossan Connections project at the start of 2021 with proposals aimed at improving the link up between the Three Towns and the area’s National Cycle Network Routes.
New cycle lanes, shared footpaths and social spaces along streets have been suggested, with a window for feedback on the designs closing last Friday.
One local business owner, based at Wavelength Hair Salon in Glasgow Street, said the plans present challenges to residents, businesses and visitors.
The founder of the change.org petition said: “There has been a lack of information [given] to businesses, customers and local residents regarding these changes.
“While we appreciate that North Ayrshire Council is trying to support and encourage cycling, there seems to be no benefit from these plans.
“There have been a number of public complaints and issues reported directly to the council and other parties involved which have not been recognised or rectified.”
Among the concerns is the potential removal of parking spaces in the town centre, as well as extra congestion through one of the town’s busiest streets due to the road being narrowed.
Alan Bell, of the The Scottish Centre for Personal Safety, also questioned the impact on those with mobility issues or visual impairments, stating that shared paths and uncontrolled crossings are “an accident waiting to happen”.
The project founders said that enhancing the walking, cycling and wheeling routes will help “shape a more accessible, safe and welcoming centre of Ardrossan”.
READ MORE: Ardrossan residents asked for views on new town developments
Eilidh Russell, project lead at Sustrans Scotland, told the Herald: “This project will lead to improvements that will encourage more people to spend time and money locally and make it easier for people to travel actively.
“Online and in person engagement to develop the design proposals have been undertaken with the community, stakeholders, and businesses during the last year. This engagement continues with both Sustrans and North Ayrshire Council meeting business owners in person to address concerns.
“Business owners are welcome to arrange a meeting with the team.”
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