Linlin resident fights to keep bus stop near library

Ralph Scott argues that the Lincoln council’s town centre revamp risks leaving public transport users worse off by removing a key bus stop. The stop, located on Gerald Street outside the library, was dropped from the final design. Scott, a member of the Lincoln Community and Residents Association, says the change could make it harder for people with limited mobility to catch buses or encourage more residents to drive.

The council is redeveloping the street to add new cycle lanes and improve pedestrian access. Tim Mason, the council’s infrastructure and property executive director, explained that the new features prevent the stop from remaining in its old spot. Mason said keeping the stop there would create safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists while obstructing traffic at the intersection.

Scott noted that residents asked the council to retain the stop when the town centre design was first put forward in 2016. Although Scott acknowledges that the decision to move the stop has likely already been made, he wants a replacement installed as close to the original location as possible. He has met with council staff to discuss the issue.

A temporary stop is currently operating outside an optometrist near the West Belt intersection. This stop will be removed once roadworks are complete. Mason stated that the council plans to move the stop outside the Bioeconomy Science Institute to a point within 150 meters of West Belt. This change will reduce the number of bus stops on that side of Gerald Street from four to three.

Scott believes his proposed solution would not interfere with the West Belt intersection. He suggests the replacement be close enough to the library to be useful while retaining existing stops near the Bioeconomy Science Institute and The Famous Grouse Hotel. He hopes a resolution can be reached before stages two and three of the upgrade are finished in about 18 months.

Mason said the council understands the importance of convenient and accessible public transport in the city. The council plans to continue speaking with the community and keeping residents informed as construction progresses. Scott remains hopeful that a compromise can be found to preserve access to the facilities close to the library.