Lib Dem Councillors Raise Concerns Over ‘Disappearing’ Cycle Lanes and Lack of Consultation

Local Liberal Democrat Councillors have expressed concerns about the council’s decision not to repaint cycle lanes on recently resurfaced roads where the carriageway is deemed too narrow. 

Following resurfacing work on several roads in Huntington, including Strensall Road, North Moor Road, and Huntington Road, residents have noticed that cycle lanes have not been reinstated. Enquiries have revealed that the council seems to have adopted a new policy under which cycle lanes will not be repainted on roads that are considered too narrow.

This policy change has not been formally communicated to councillors or residents, nor does it seem to have been subject to consultation or recorded as an official decision. Instead, Lib Dem councillors only became aware of this change because it was disclosed by an officer in response to a direct enquiry. This lack of transparency has caused confusion and concern among residents who want to see safer cycling options and the absence of clear communication and consultation means that decisions affecting the safety and accessibility of cycling infrastructure are being made without input from elected representatives or the people they serve.

Huntington & New Earswick Councillor Keith Orrell said:

“It is deeply disappointing that the council has effectively introduced a policy to stop repainting cycle lanes on narrower roads without any proper consultation or transparency - it undermines the trust between the council and the community. Some cyclists may prefer to keep a narrow cycle lane which has been in place for many years rather than have no cycle lane markings at all, but the council hasn’t sought their views before making this change. It’s unacceptable that key decisions are being made behind closed doors with no democratic oversight. 

“Liberal Democrats have made it clear that we support investment in measures to support active travel, such as off-road cycle paths and on-road paths which are of a suitable width. Our 2025/26 council budget amendment this year included an additional £425,000 specifically for improving cycling and walking infrastructure, unfortunately Labour voted this down.”