Cycling initiative hailed 'a success'

An initiative launched in October to tackle road safety in the capital has been hailed a "success".

Lothian and Borders Police Road Policing and Safer Neighbourhood Teams took to the streets during one week in a bid to promote road safety on the city’s main roads.

An estimated 100 motorists were stopped due to inappropriate driving behaviour and were spoken to by police. During the initiative, six drivers received a fixed penalty notice and three cars were seized.

242 cyclists were also stopped for common offences such as cycling on the pavement, going through a red light and not wearing a helmet.

Inspector Andy Gilhooly, of the central policing team, said cycling safety is just as important as road safety: "They think they can get away with murder and a lot of them think it is fun and acceptable. It's actually very dangerous and serious."

"In general, cycling is a big thing in Edinburgh and we encourage it. It promotes healthy living and means there are fewer vehicles on the roads.

"Most cyclists are fine, but there are those who spoil it as it's all about getting somewhere as quickly as possible for them."

As the days begin to get shorter, guidance was given to students who cycle on ensuring they stay safe when travelling to University and around the city in the dark winter months.

Sergeant Quentin Russell of Lothian and Borders Police highlighted the success of the campaign, saying: "The purpose of this initiative was to enhance the standards of cycling and motoring on Edinburgh’s roads as well as improve relations between motorists and cyclists. We were delighted by the response to this campaign.”

Throughout the week, cycling organisations such as The Bike Station and Spokes assisted the Police with offering a free bike marking service which resulted in 69 new cycles registering on the national database.

Sergeant Russell added "Anyone wishing information on road safety or advice on protecting their bike or other possessions should contact their local policing team”.