Residents in Gloucester have voiced strong opposition to proposals for a new cycle path passing through residential streets, citing potential road safety hazards and parking difficulties.
The plans are part of Gloucestershire County Council’s ambitious initiative to establish a 26-mile cycle spine connecting Bishop’s Cleeve with Stroud, via Cheltenham and Gloucester. However, the latest designs for the section between Stroud Road and Tuffley Lane have provoked concern among residents around the Oval.
Local objections focus on the challenges posed by routing the cycle path around the Oval, which is already a heavily trafficked road. Among the three options put forward is a one-way system, which has been described as “crazy” by a local councillor.
Mhairi Ball, a resident living on a nearby slip road, highlighted health and safety concerns. She recounted attending a recent consultation event, where council officers acknowledged the risks but noted signage would be installed without guaranteeing full responsibility for children playing nearby. Ball said, “We have to drive really slowly because there are always children coming out from the park. The one-way system is not confirmed, but we remain vigilant.”
Another resident, Lynda O’Connor, criticised the one-way proposal, questioning its practicality for parking and local access. She said, “It’s a nightmare. If a one-way system is introduced, where will residents park their cars? It feels like a decision made without understanding its real impact on the community.”
Nearby resident Bill Russell expressed fears about emergency access if the one-way system is implemented. “There are disabled residents who rely on vehicles for pick-up. Blocking roads could prevent emergency services from getting through,” he warned.
While supportive of enhancing cycling infrastructure, Sarah Matheou, a local resident, described some council ideas as “a bit mad” but acknowledged the existing cycle routes have dangerous sections. “The concept is positive, but the execution needs careful planning to ensure safety and effectiveness,” she reflected.
Labour councillor Terry Pullen, representing Moreland at Gloucester City Council, has received similar complaints from locals. He described the traffic conditions around The Oval as challenging, citing a tight curve and limited visibility. Cllr Pullen criticised the one-way option for potentially diverting traffic to neighbouring areas, increasing congestion, and exacerbating parking pressures. “It seems the council has not fully considered local views or the practicalities on the ground,” he said.
Cllr Pullen encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing consultation, which closes on September 23, emphasising the need for genuine community engagement and responsive action.
Gloucestershire County Council has been approached for comment but has not yet responded.
Previously, Liberal Democrat councillor Roger Whyborn, in charge of sustainable transport for the council, acknowledged resident concerns and explained the broader goals of the cycle project. “Our aim is to provide safer, accessible routes for daily journeys, improve connectivity between communities and key destinations, and support sustainable travel to reduce carbon emissions,” he stated.
He emphasised the importance of balancing different transport modes and welcomed feedback from local residents, businesses, and community groups during the consultation process.