Work to remove 'disaster' cycle lane complete
Middlesbrough CouncilWork to remove a cycle lane just four years after it was installed has been completed.
The route on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough has been ripped out and the area resurfaced, with parking spaces reinstated and bus stops to be repositioned.
The cycle lane had faced a backlash since it opened in 2022, with concerns over cyclists and pedestrians being injured and businesses branding it a "disaster".
Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke said: "I'm pleased the cycle lane is no more and it's positive to see traffic running smoothly." Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: "Cycle lanes have to work in the real world and this scheme has caused nothing but problems since day one."
The lane was approved by Cooke's predecessor Andy Preston and cost £1.7m in government funding granted to the council to promote active travel.
Its removal, which started last August, has cost Tees Valley Combined Authority £2.17m.
The lane was dubbed "an absolute disaster" by the owner of Madame Rouge vintage pub and tearooms, with other traders reporting falling custom due to a shortage of parking and drop-off access.
Other concerns centred around several cyclists and pedestrians being injured while using the new layout.
According to the council, a public consultation in 2024 found strong support for its removal.
Cooke said: "I'm all for schemes that support sustainable travel, but they have to be in appropriate places.
"We've righted a wrong by removing the lane and it's time to look forwards."
