Plans to partially block a road in Cardiff to cars and turn it into a cycle path have received a mixed reaction from residents. Cardiff Council is currently exploring options to change the area around Roath Recreation Ground to improve accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians.
Its plans include a proposal to close Alder Road, between Roath Rec and Roath Park, to through traffic from the Ninian Road side, with the zebra crossing being relocated and vehicles only able to access Alder Road via Ty Draw Road. It forms part of wider plans to provide a new cycle track and footpath in the playing field between the junction of Wellfield Road and Alder Road, with other alterations to link the changes to the Wellfield Road pop-up cycleway.
But the proposals have drawn a mixed reaction from residents in the area, with some raising fears it could exacerbate anti-social behaviour near Alder Road and increase traffic in the area. One resident, who did not want to be named, said she supported blocking the road on both sides and allowing for emergency vehicle access would be better than shutting it off on one side.
READ MORE: ‘Bonkers’ late-night council debate starting at 10pm on Cardiff’s congestion charge
"I feel blocking one end of Alder road will increase the volume of antisocial behaviour that already occurs regularly," she said. "I live in view of Alder road and there are cars abandoned there often. It’s used for people to store their mobile homes and youths deal drugs.
"I fully support the improvement to the paths around the park and improving cycle facilities but closing one end of the road is not going to benefit anyone." Other residents posting online said they believed the plans would result in Alder Road becoming "a hang out for undesirables" as well as making the councils clean air plan "counter-productive."
But some residents said they supported the proposals, saying it would make the area safer for non-motorists. Resident Graham Scott said: "I generally support the plans. I'd like to see a few mobility spaces added onto Alder Road as part of the change, and the closure be a bit wider, but that is all.
"My family do currently use the road as a cut-through, but I understand how closing it can be good for traffic, and it's definitely safer for pedestrians and bikes." Mr Scott added: "I'd like to see the strip that closes the road be wider, because it connects paths in the two parks that are in from the road."
What do you think about the plans? Let us know how you feel in the comments below
The section is part of a wider scheme that aims to connect communities to other areas across the city. A new cycle track and footpath is proposed in the playing field between the junction of Wellfield Road and Alder Road. Low-level lighting will also be considered, according to a council document.
It adds: "The bus stops on Ninian Road between Alder Road and Wellfield Road will be reviewed to determine whether they can be improved. This may include raised built-out bus stops for better access and relocating the stops." Cardiff Bus recently made big changes to their timetable across Cardiff and you can find out more here.
Plasnewydd councillor Sue Lent said most residents she knew of were in favour of the plans. "We are hoping it will help join up the cycle paths in the area," she said. "Most residents that I am aware of are positive about the plans. It will make the area better and safer for cyclists and pedestrians. You can cross the road without worrying about cars coming around the corner."
Saying she was unaware of any major problems with anti-social behaviour on Alder Road, Ms Lent added: "I don't see that it will cause traffic issues. I know some people use it as a cut-through, but normally if you are driving in that area you are on the main road either side. You wouldn't really cut through that road."
A Cardiff council spokesperson confirmed it would be inappropriate for it to comment until the live consultation process was complete. You can view the plans here.
