'Unpopular' cycle lanes could be scrapped

A four-week consultation on the future of "unpopular" cycle lanes is to get under way.

The Linthorpe Road Cycleway was introduced in Middlesbrough two years ago by the town's then Mayor, Andy Preston, with the aim of making the area "greener" and "safer".

However, current Mayor Chris Cooke and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen have pledged to end the scheme citing a number of negative impacts.

Subject to feedback and the granting of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), removal works could begin later this year and be completed in early 2025.

The consultation is seeking views on reinstating the road's previous layout while retaining the closure of Victoria Street.

Conservative peer Lord Houchen said: "We're all for improving how everyone gets around Teesside, but the Linthorpe Road cycle lane simply hasn't worked and should never have happened.

"It's been a pain for businesses, hasn't improved life for cyclists or pedestrians and it needs to be removed.

"We're all agreed that the status quo simply cannot remain and I'm determined we see spades in the ground to get this out before the end of the year."

Mr Cooke, of Labour, described the scheme as "unpopular with many people who use Linthorpe Road".

He added: "I pledged to get rid of it before I was elected and am pleased we have now reached the point where the TVCA (Tees Valley Combined Authority) can pay for its removal in full, including the costs of putting the road right.

"We've had assurances there will be no impact on Middlesbrough Council's finances. That is massively important given our wider responsibilities to the town.

"Lots of positive things are happening in our town centre and it's vital that we listen to the people of Middlesbrough."

When the scheme was launched, Mr Preston said it would reduce the number of cars in the area, make the street safer for pedestrians and benefit businesses in the long run.

However, one grocery shop owner told the BBC their takings had gone down due to the loss of parking spaces.