A PROPOSAL to install a new cycle lane through Wilmington Square has been met with strong opposition from local residents, who say the scheme would destroy a much-loved green space and undermine the historic character of the area, according to a town councillor.
Concerns escalated following a recent site visit organised by Meads councillor Robert Smart, during which members of the newly formed Friends of Wilmington Square group met with engineers from Balfour Beatty, the council’s contractors.
The early-stage plans propose a 3-metre-wide cycle lane along the southern edge of the square, involving the removal of six parking spaces, the introduction of a one-way traffic system, and the relocation of several lamp posts. Crucially, the route would cut through a strip of grass forming part of the original Victorian layout, replacing it with tarmac.
Councillor Robert Smart added: “Spending thousands of pounds to build a short cycle lane across a quiet square — one that’s already used safely by both cyclists and drivers — is a complete waste of public money.
“Residents were shocked to learn of these plans and are quite rightly asking why, at a time when so many local services are under pressure, this is being treated as a priority. It’s a badly thought-through scheme with no local support.”
Councillor Smart is calling for the plan to be paused and for proper consultation with residents before any irreversible damage is done to this historic public space.
