A heated debate is brewing in Exeter over a road closure that has cyclists and drivers at odds. Since the pandemic, Dryden Road has been transformed into a cycling haven, with bollards blocking other vehicles and creating a safer space for bikers. But not everyone is thrilled with this arrangement.
The local council, Devon County Council, made the closure permanent in 2022, aiming to reduce traffic and enhance safety for cyclists. However, this decision has sparked protests and online petitions, with over 2,500 signatures demanding the road's reopening. The petition's creator, Helen Montgomery, believes there's a way to accommodate everyone: pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
The petition highlights a concerning issue: diverted traffic now clogs nearby residential roads, many narrower than Dryden Road, creating unsafe walking routes, especially for schoolchildren. This has left residents frustrated and concerned for their safety.
Responding to these worries, the council has launched a consultation, offering three options for the road's future. The first option includes a bus gate, allowing only authorized vehicles like taxis and emergency services, with an ANPR camera system and a reduced speed limit to ensure safety. But some argue that this isn't enough.
A second proposal suggests one-way traffic and a contraflow cycleway, while the third option, favored by those advocating for reopening, involves two-way traffic and painted cycle lanes. The council acknowledges the financial implications, with the first option being the most cost-effective and the third potentially costing up to £1 million.
Interestingly, the council also proposes a compromise, suggesting reopening the road with on-street parking but without dedicated cycling infrastructure, which they admit would hinder bike access. Local campaigner Ian Frankum, who has long fought for the road's reopening, sees the consultation as a significant milestone.
The Exeter Cycling Campaign urges residents to participate in the consultation, emphasizing safety and connectivity as key priorities. But the question remains: can a solution satisfy both cyclists and drivers, ensuring safety and accessibility for all? The council's challenge is to find a balanced approach, and the community's input is crucial in shaping the future of Dryden Road.
