Northern Ireland urged to repurpose roads for walkers and cyclists amid lockdown
Calls are growing for Northern Ireland to reallocate road space to pedestrians and cyclists during the coronavirus lockdown. Advocacy groups argue that wider footways and safer cycle lanes would improve public health. The changes could also help reduce air pollution, which has been linked to worse Covid-19 outcomes.
Many pavements in Northern Ireland are less than two metres wide. This forces walkers onto roads or to cross over, making social distancing difficult. Cycling numbers have risen sharply, with many new riders needing protected lanes to stay safe.
The Department for Infrastructure already has the power to make quick, low-cost adjustments. Using Experimental Traffic Regulation Orders, underused traffic lanes could be turned into temporary cycle paths or widened footways. One proposal involves converting a lane on Belfast's Antrim Road into a contra-flow cycle lane.
Similar schemes in other cities have worked well during the pandemic. Evidence shows that cleaner air from reduced traffic has helped people with breathing problems. Groups like Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and Cycling UK are now pushing for these changes to be made permanent beyond lockdown.
The push for reallocated road space comes as cycling grows and air quality improves. Wider pavements and safer bike routes would support long-term health benefits. The Department for Infrastructure can act quickly to make these changes under existing regulations.
