“Positive outcome”: changes to Silverknowes Roundabout layout agreed

Changes to the layout of Silverknowes Roundabout have been agreed to help make it safer and more user-friendly for those on two wheels, as well as pedestrians. The changes will see access onto and off the roundabout at Silverknowes Parkway cut to a single lane for cars and buses.

Following discussions between Council officers and representatives of cycling groups, a number of new features are currently being installed at the roundabout in north west Edinburgh as part of ongoing carriageway resurfacing works.

These are:

• a reduction down to one lane on and off the roundabout from Silverknowes Parkway by introducing footway build-outs

• the creation of a dedicated cycle track on the north side of the roundabout, to the rear of the existing footpath and behind the bus terminus

• the pedestrian refuge island in Lauriston Farm Avenue to be changed to a zebra crossing on a raised table with a  footway build out on the south side to improve sightlines

• the introduction of hatching markings on the centre of the roundabout to reduce the running lane to five metres.

In light of experience with this project, the Council’s Street Design Guidance will be amended, clarifying that the type of cycle lane originally planned in this project (following the perimeter of the roundabout within the carriageway) is not recommended for use in Edinburgh.

Transport Vice Convener Councillor Karen Doran said: “I’m very pleased that through working together with cycling groups to address their concerns, we’ve been able to achieve this positive outcome. Coupled with the new road surface, which will make it smoother and safer for all road users, these alterations to Silverknowes roundabout will help make it much more accessible for bicycles and pedestrians.”

Martin McDonnell of Spokes said: “Spokes greatly welcomes the Council’s new policy to incorporate cycle and pedestrian facilities in resurfacing projects, thus providing new facilities at relatively little cost.  The Silverknowes case shows the value and importance of the Council consulting on the details of such projects.”

Graeme Hart, proprietor of Hart’s Cyclery, said: “I contacted the Council as I was concerned that the resurfacing of the roundabout needed to be done in a cycle-friendly way.  I was pleased to host a meeting with Council officers, along with Spokes, and delighted with the outcome and with the open-minded approach of the Council officers.”