Monday January 5th 2026
Active travel scheme plans for Dundee Street
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Walking campaigners Living Streets Edinburgh have called for the Council to put pedestrians first in new active travel schemes, which they have expressed that the council policy states.
The call comes as the group criticises plans for Dundee Street which would see large sections of busy pavement narrowed to accommodate new cycleways.
The group has learnt that pavements would be reduced in at least 12 locations, in some places by as much as 2.4 metres.
One pavement (at the Edinburgh Printmakers) would be left little more than a metre wide.
David Hunter, the group’s Convener, said:
“Despite a £10 million price tag, the plans for Dundee Street would not only leave many pavements below the minimum width recognised in both local and national guidance, they would actually reduce pavement space.
“New cycle lanes shouldn’t come from walking space. We’ve already seen how pedestrian space was squeezed out in Leith Walk, and Dundee Street would make the same mistake. We really need to see the Council stick to its own policy – that means putting pedestrians’ needs first, above other road users.”
Living Streets also criticises the lack of pedestrian improvements at Boroughmuir, Tollcross and Craiglockhart schools, and the introduction of nine ‘floating’ bus stops, which means that passengers have to cross a cycle way to get on or off a bus.
Living Streets Edinburgh Group supports the provision of alternative routes for cyclists to the Union Canal towpath, but suggests this should be achieved using traffic-free and quiet streets in Shandon and North Merchiston rather than on Dundee Street.
To see the groups full response click here.
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