Hospital patient slams Sheffield cycle lane after getting stuck in traffic – but more could be on the way

A terminally ill hospital patient has questioned the logic behind a ‘pop-up’ cycle lane on one of the city’s busiest roads and said it is adding to his stress.
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It comes as Sheffield City Council confirmed more “low traffic neighbourhoods” could be created in the city in addition to improvements to existing routes.

Kevin Walters, aged 59, is about to begin immunotherapy treatment at Weston Park Hospital, which will involve travelling on the A61 dual carriageway in Shalesmoor to get to and from appointments from his home in Chapeltown.

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The IT executive said he has seen just two cyclists in the four journeys he has made on the road since the ‘pop-up’ lane opened on July 5, which includes trips during ‘rush hour’ times when more people would be expected to commute.

Kevin Walters, aged 59, is about to begin immunotherapy treatment at Weston Park Hospital. Credit: Kevin Walters.Kevin Walters, aged 59, is about to begin immunotherapy treatment at Weston Park Hospital. Credit: Kevin Walters.
Kevin Walters, aged 59, is about to begin immunotherapy treatment at Weston Park Hospital. Credit: Kevin Walters.

Kevin said: “I would sum it up in a word: ridiculous. The irony is that there is already a cycle lane designated.

"It’s stresses me out because I have to go to the hospital from the north side of Sheffield and there’s traffic issues there, then coming back when I’m ready for home you are just sat in that traffic for what appears to be no benefit to anybody.”

Councillor Bob Johnson, cabinet member for transport, previously said the new cycle lane will be removed by mid-September, or sooner if traffic builds up to 85 per cent of pre-lockdown levels.

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Kevin said: “There's no logic behind it at all. It’s a major road through Sheffield for ambulances getting to the Hallamshire and Weston Park from the north side and ambulances going to the Northern General from the south side.

The cycle lane on the A61 Shalesmoor.The cycle lane on the A61 Shalesmoor.
The cycle lane on the A61 Shalesmoor.

"I would be interested to see the evidence behind the reasoning for doing what they are doing.”

Several motorists and businesses have complained about the impact of driving lanes being closed in both directions. There have also been several instances of emergency service vehicles becoming stuck in traffic. But some cyclists welcomed the changes and called for them to be made permanent.

A Sheffield Council spokesperson said an update on the lane will be given next week when plans have been finalised. In the meantime, Coun Johnson said the existing Sheaf Valley cycle route has been selected as the council’s preferred area for improvements should their bid for further emergency active travel funding from the Government be successful.

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He said: “The funding would also give us scope to create more low traffic neighbourhoods in Crookes and Nether Edge, which will also benefit from the proposed cycle lane. Consultation on these proposals with residents and businesses in these communities will be undertaken if the funding is approved.

“I am looking forward to hearing the outcome of the bid at the end of the month, when, if it is successful, we will be in a position to provide more details on the scheme.”

On the Shalesmoor cycle route, he previously said the Council is “committed to enhancing walking and cycling as a means of reducing congestion, improving air quality, increasing physical activity and creating attractive places.”