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Calls for safer cycling lanes after fatal collision

Getty Images A cycle lane marked by a large emblem of a bicycle, with double yellow lines at the edge. Getty Images
The Department for Infrastructure says it is working on improving cycling infrastructure

There have been calls for safer routes for bicycles in Belfast after the death of a cyclist in the city.

Gary McMahon, 58, died after a collision with a lorry in north Belfast on Thursday.

The circumstances are unclear and police have appealed for anyone with information or dash-cam footage to contact them.

Alliance Party MLA Nuala McAllister said the tragic death should be a "wake-up call for action".

She plans to raise the issue at the next session of the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday.

Anne Madden, policy manager at the charity Sustrans, described the existing cycling infrastructure in north Belfast as "really poor".

She claimed there were "no safe cycle lanes in north Belfast".

'Cars parked in cycle lanes'

She added that "there are a few advisory cycle lanes but that means that cars can park in them, so most cyclists are forced to weave around traffic - and there's a horrendous amount of traffic in north Belfast".

Ms Madden said that following her cycle to work in the city centre she texts her partner to say: "I've arrived alive."

"Nobody should have to do that."

Pacemaker A man wearing a dark suit, blue shirt and a dark coloured tie. Pacemaker
Gary McMahon was killed when he was cycling on Thursday morning

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure, which is responsible for roads in Northern Ireland, said: "The department is very sorry to hear of the death of Mr McMahon yesterday and send our condolences to his family and friends.

"As with all fatal collisions we will be working closely with the PSNI to assist them with their investigation.

“The department is continuing to progress a number of cycling infrastructure improvements in accordance with the Belfast Cycle Network Delivery Plan.

"We have been undertaking engagement with key user groups in the development of these schemes before we commence statutory processes to implement legislation for new cycle routes."

The funeral of Mr McMahon will take place on Tuesday.