Bikes could be allowed in Carlisle city centre thanks to proposed relaxing of anti-bike laws

A ban on cycling in Carlisle’s pedestrianised city centre could be lifted under plans to get more people cycling to and from work and school.

Currently cycles are banned in the shopping area, but the council is debating plans to see the restriction lifted between 4.30pm and 10.30am on English Street and Scotch Street.

Cumbria County Council Local Committee for Carlisle is to debate the issue, although a report by the council’s officers recommend they approve it.

It states: “The proposal aims to provide the most direct and suitable route through Carlisle city centre.”

The consultation’s 12 respondents were all positive towards the ideas, but questioned why they didn’t go far enough, as they still will not allow bikes where cars can currently go, along the Greenmarket and part of English Street.

Council officers said this is due to the significant number of additional signs that would be required at the various entry points.

The only cost of the new plans, £7,500, will be for new signs explaining the change in the law.

The 10.30am to 4.30pm window is considered the busiest time for the city centre shopping area, which is why cycling will still be banned during this period.

Three other routes were initially considered by councillors – a route along Viaduct Estate Road before joining Castle Way; another using West Walls before also joining Castle Way; and one along Lowther Street, linking to Rickergate via Drovers Lane.

The route they chose to support was the one requested by Cycle Carlisle and which they felt would be best used.