Scores of locals gathered to protest against trial changes to traffic in their Edinburgh neighbourhood on Tuesday night.
The introduction of Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) measures in Corstorphine, including bollards and planters blocking off roads, have angered some. Residents have suggested businesses could see less trade, while locals with disabilities have been left "trapped in their homes'".
Peter Roberts, a Corstorphine resident, was one of the organisers of the meeting which saw various people speak on why they felt the changes won't work for the neighbourhood. Councillor Scott Arthur says concerns expressed by residents have been "listened to", and asked locals to "keep in mind that the changes are simply a trial".
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Speaking to Edinburgh Live, Peter said: “People feel very strongly about this. The experimental traffic order was signed off right at the end of May, which comprises a whole raft of constrictions. Bollards are going up all the time.
“In addition, a whole load of restrictions upon which the neighbourhood was never consulted have actually been included in the experimental traffic order. In fact, most of the restrictions that have been authorised were never part of the original consultation.
“I could give you a list of the streets affected, it’s very extensive. Most of them are a complete surprise.
“By the time the consultation process is over, it’ll be too late. Businesses affected will have been ruined, lives will be upended.
“It’ll be too late. The damage will be done by the time the council has made its mind up.”
Peter feels there should have been more steps in between the council deciding on their final list of changes in the neighbourhood and actually implementing them. He added that while it may have "taken longer", it would’ve been "more democratic".
Alex Cole-Hamilton, MP for Edinburgh Western, told Edinburgh Live that those against the LTN changes are "not just car enthusiasts". He said: “These people care about the environment.
“They’re not denying anything, but they want to have been more involved in the process. It’s time for Scott Arthur and other councillors to step up and back their constituents."
Peter was in agreement. He added: “Local businesses are going to see the effects soon.
“The local butcher told me it’s already very difficult to get his deliveries in. I spoke to the lady who owns the dance shop and she was saying people might struggle to come to her classes because they can’t get parked.
“People will just go elsewhere. There’s a cafe that relies on passing trade, which won’t be happening with the road closures.
“It’s these little things that the council don’t see.” Peter added: “The council ignored all the feedback they got from the consultation exercise.
“The majority of people said no changes at all were needed.”
One of the speakers on Tuesday was Grant Douglas, a local man who has disabilities and requires special transport in and out of his home. Due to the LTN trials, he cannot get in and out of his home at certain times.
Peter told us: “He applied for an exemption to the council and was told no. He’s essentially imprisoned in his own home. It’s clearly discriminatory against this chap.”
Responding, Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Scott Arthur told Edinburgh Live: “As part of the development of the designs for the project the Council carried out a significant amount of engagement with the local community, many of whom highlighted concerns about the volume and speed of traffic in the area.
"Independent market research carried out also showed that 67% of people living in the area thought vehicle traffic was a problem, and those with disabilities were more likely to be concerned about the situation. By limiting through traffic and providing spaces to sit, relax and interact, Corstorphine Connections aims to create a much safer and more welcoming environment for people living there.
"I know already that many parents have enjoyed being able to walk and cycle more easily with their children since the Council started implementing the scheme, particularly during the recent warmer weather. The Council retained access for all residents travelling by car too, alongside these changes, so that those who choose to drive can still do so.
"It is now much harder, however, for delivery drivers etc to cut through the residential area on the way to somewhere else. The Council listened to concerns expressed by residents before implementing the experimental scheme, and modified the measures that residents were most concerned about, for example removing a proposed ‘bus gate’ on Corstorphine High Street.
“Ultimately, however, improving pedestrian safety in the area will have some impact on vehicle use – particularly for traffic cutting through the area on the way to somewhere else. Please keep in mind, however, that the changes are simply a trial and will be undone or modified if any negative consequences outweigh the benefits. Indeed, I still want to hear residents’ views and I look forward to receiving feedback as part of the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order process."
