Edinburgh Cowgate traffic ban ‘delayed by funding issues’ before fatal bus crash

Edinburgh Cowgate Traffic Ban Delayed by Funding Issues Prior to Fatal Bus Crash

A proposed ban on traffic in Edinburgh’s renowned Cowgate area was slated to be enforced months before a tragic accident took place on the historic street. However, the council opted to postpone the ban citing funding concerns. The fatal incident occurred on Saturday, November 2nd, resulting in the death of a 74-year-old man who was hit by a bus.

Earlier in the year, city councillors had agreed to close the busy road to “some or all through traffic in 2024”, with hopes for a full closure by the summer festival season. Following the recent tragedy, there have been urgent pleas from councillors to expedite the closure without further delay. A report presented to the transport committee in February detailed the precarious conditions on Cowgate, highlighting the insufficient pavement widths and the risk of pedestrians being pushed onto the busy road.

The accident prompted a significant police presence on Cowgate, with surrounding streets cordoned off. While an experimental traffic order was sanctioned to shut down the street, the initiative was halted in May due to a lack of funding and uncertainty surrounding financial support. Efforts to secure funding from Sustrans for the trial closure of Cowgate and Lawnmarket were made, but the allocation of funds by Transport Scotland remained uncertain.

Council officers have suggested making a section of Cowgate one-way as a short-term solution to expand pedestrian space. However, former transport convener Scott Arthur indicated that a complete closure was the committee’s preferred option. Transport committee member Danny Aston emphasised the need to swiftly implement solutions, acknowledging the constant danger pedestrians face on Cowgate throughout the year, particularly during the busy summer months.

In response to the tragedy, Police Scotland issued a statement confirming an ongoing investigation into the crash. There were cautionary statements against sharing distressing content related to the incident online. Edinburgh’s current transport convener, Stephen Jenkinson, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility in the city centre, expressing condolences to the victim’s family.

David Hunter from Living Streets urged a comprehensive plan to address road safety hazards in the area, emphasizing the long-standing risks on Cowgate. Councillor Aston voiced concerns over the delay in implementing low-cost interventions to improve pedestrian safety on the street, stressing the pressing need for action.

As discussions continue on the future of Cowgate, there is a growing consensus among officials and advocates for prioritizing pedestrian safety and urban accessibility. The tragic accident has shed light on the urgency of addressing longstanding safety concerns in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town area.

Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the unfortunate delay in implementing safety measures on Edinburgh’s Cowgate street, leading to a fatal accident. It underscores the importance of prompt action in addressing urban safety concerns and the critical need for effective traffic management in historic city centres. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to create safer and more pedestrian-friendly environments in urban settings.