“New Shared Cycling Lane Unveiled in Ghent: Activist Gregory Mortier Calls for Enhanced Safety”

Ghent (Eurotoday): A new shared lane for cyclists opened on Ottergemsesteenweg in Ghent, allowing cars and bikes. Activist Gregory Mortier from the Ghent Environmental Front wants safer spaces for cyclists, especially for students. They used temporary chalk to mark safety issues, but it’s unclear how the city will respond.

This morning on 25 November, a new lane for cyclists was opened along Ottergemsesteenweg, between Normaalschoolstraat and Herfststraat. It’s important to note that this lane is not a fully dedicated bike path. Unlike bike paths where cyclists have priority and cars are not allowed, this lane is shared by both cyclists and motorists.

Will Ghent’s new shared cyclist lane improve safety for students and cyclists?

It has been said that motorists are allowed to drive and park in the new lane, and they don’t have to give priority to cyclists using it. While this arrangement aims to improve safety and convenience for cyclists, it doesn’t separate them from traffic, which may limit its effectiveness in preventing accidents or close encounters with vehicles. This type of lane is often referred to as a “suggested bike lane” or “shared space,” indicating that it provides an area for cyclists but lacks the legal protections of a dedicated cycle path.

Activists are raising awareness about cyclist safety on a busy street in Ghent. Gregory Mortier from the Ghent Environmental Front stated that the area has a lot of cars and bikes, and they want the city to create more space for cyclists, especially since many students use this route daily. They used temporary chalk paint to mark the road, knowing it was not allowed, but it would wash away in a week. The city’s mobility alderman, Filip Watteeuw, has not commented on the situation, leaving it unclear if the markings will be removed or if the activists could face fines.