Gloucester residents have expressed significant concerns regarding the next phase of a controversial 26-mile cycle path project planned by Gloucestershire County Council. The scheme aims to create a key cycling route connecting Bishop’s Cleeve with Stroud, passing through Cheltenham and Gloucester.
With an estimated cost of around £50 million to date, the latest segment proposes a route through Gloucester that includes St Ann Way, Linden, Podsmead, and Tuffley, following Stroud Road, King Edwards Avenue, and The Oval.
Local residents fear that the new cycle path will result in a reduction of on-street parking spaces in an already busy area. There are also concerns that the proposed one-way system will cause significant inconvenience, forcing residents to take longer routes to access their homes.
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Karen Deakins, a local resident, voiced her worries about the one-way system on Stroud Road, describing it as “ridiculous”. She highlighted the potential negative impact on those living in nearby streets such as St Pauls Road, New Street, and Weston Road. Deakins also raised safety concerns around St Paul’s School, noting that the roads near the school are often congested during peak times and that the one-way system could exacerbate this issue.
Community activist Sophie Wootton-Lee, who lives locally and commutes by foot, bicycle, and car, expressed doubts about the viability of the proposed route. She emphasised that the removal of on-street parking could worsen existing difficulties in finding parking and that some sections of the route might pose safety risks to both cyclists and motorists. Wootton-Lee urged local residents to participate in the forthcoming consultation event to share their views.
Labour councillor Terry Pullen, representing Gloucester’s Moreland ward, described the plans for The Oval area as “a real cause for concern.” He warned that implementing a one-way system could inconvenience residents and increase traffic on neighbouring roads, including Seymour Road and Calton Road. Pullen also criticised the removal of a right-hand turn into King Edwards Avenue, stating it would make an already busy junction more congested and questioned the safety of the proposed cycle route requiring cyclists to cross a lane of traffic.
In response, Liberal Democrat councillor Roger Whyborn, responsible for sustainable transport at Gloucestershire County Council, acknowledged that residents have questions and concerns about the plans. He emphasised the council’s commitment to public engagement at this stage, aiming to create safer, more accessible cycling routes that encourage sustainable travel and reduce carbon emissions. Whyborn encouraged community members to review the designs, ask questions, and provide feedback, which will be carefully considered before finalising the scheme.
Two public drop-in events have been arranged at City Church on Seymour Road in Gloucester. The first took place on 19 August, with a second scheduled for 2 September from 10am to 7pm. At these sessions, council project team members will be on hand to discuss proposals and answer questions. Scheme details, including design drawings and 3D visualisations, are also available online, alongside a survey for submitting comments.
The council is urging all interested residents, businesses, and community groups to participate in the engagement process and complete the online survey to help shape the future of the cycle path project.