A commuter praises the new Deansgate cycle lane, feeling safer while navigating the city. He believes the changes will encourage more people to cycle and enjoy the area.
Manchester: A commuter named James Turner is really happy about the new cycle lane on Deansgate. He feels much safer biking through the city now.
James thinks this lane is a smart investment for the future. Since the pandemic, bike lanes have popped up to encourage more walking and cycling.
They started with temporary lanes, but now they’re making it permanent. The new black-and-white bollards, called ‘wand orcas,’ are already in place.
There’s a dedicated cycle lane on one side of Deansgate, and they’re finishing the last stretch soon. It should be done by spring, which is exciting!
Traffic has been reduced to one lane, and temporary lights are set up at the end of Deansgate. Some folks complained about traffic chaos over Christmas, but James sees the bigger picture.
He uses the lane regularly and believes it’s essential. James, who lives in south Manchester, bikes into the city several times a week.
He used to navigate through side streets, which was tricky and dangerous. Now, he feels secure on the dedicated path.
“It’s just nice,” he says. “Deansgate is quieter and calmer now. It makes sense to keep traffic off this road.”
Some critics argue the lane is often empty while cars wait in long lines. But James insists he sees other cyclists, especially delivery riders.
He’s lived in Manchester for nine years and believes the lane will be more popular once it connects with other routes. Right now, they’re a bit disconnected, which can scare some people away.
James thinks once everything is linked up, more folks will feel comfortable using the lanes. He’s confident that will happen everywhere.
He believes the long-term benefits will be clear. “People will get used to the changes,” he says. “It’s about building for the future.”
James points out that oil will run out eventually, and we need to shift towards walking, cycling, or public transport.
He also thinks the current traffic chaos isn’t just about the cycle lane. Deansgate has always been busy, even before these changes.
Councillor Tracey Rawlins from Manchester City Council is pleased with the progress. She hopes more people will enjoy the space for pedestrians and cyclists once everything is finished.
She emphasizes the importance of rethinking how we travel to the city. The goal is to reduce unnecessary car trips and make Manchester a leading city in Europe.
