Edinburgh Cowgate dubbed ‘worst street in capital’ in report years before horror bus crash

Edinburgh’s Cowgate, once referred to as the ‘worst street in the capital,’ has been in the spotlight after a tragic bus crash claimed the life of a 74-year-old man. The campaign group Living Streets highlighted the dangers pedestrians face on Cowgate in a report from eight years ago, calling for urgent action to improve safety in the area.

On a bustling Halloween night, the elderly man was struck by a bus on Cowgate, leading to a scene of horror as witnesses described finding a ‘severed head’ at the site of the accident. Police swiftly responded, cordoning off streets like Candlemaker Row, Guthrie Street, and Blair Street, while forensic teams set up tents for investigation purposes.

Living Streets’ report from 2016 identified Cowgate as a hazardous street due to heavy vehicular traffic, with residents criticising it for being unfriendly to pedestrians. Although some measures like a 20 mph speed limit and traffic restrictions after 10 pm have been implemented, advocates are calling for further steps to prioritize pedestrian safety by potentially pedestrianising the area.

Edinburgh Council is being urged to consider re-evaluating its traffic plans and potentially restricting or even eliminating vehicular traffic on Cowgate to prevent further tragedies. Transport convener Stephen Jenkinson expressed condolences to the victim’s family and stressed the city’s commitment to creating a safer environment for all road users.

Despite existing regulations and efforts to enhance safety, the recent incident has reignited concerns about the perilous conditions on Cowgate and the need for more extensive measures to protect pedestrians. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by urban areas in balancing the needs of different road users and ensuring public safety.

In conclusion, while the report sheds light on the longstanding issues on Cowgate, the recent bus crash underscores the importance of continuous efforts to address pedestrian safety concerns in urban environments. The tragic loss of life highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to create safer streets for all residents and visitors in Edinburgh and beyond.