TWO new cycle lanes could be trialled in the centre of York – despite warnings they may be “worse than useless”.

The city’s transport bosses are set to approve the testing of metre-wide routes for cyclists along Museum Street and across Lendal Bridge, as well as in Gillygate.

They say the lanes could prevent accidents as cyclists try to dodge cars.

The pilot scheme is set to be approved at a decision session for City of York Council’s executive member for city strategy, Coun Steve Galloway, next month.

If it is a success, it could be expanded to other stretches of York’s Inner Ring Road, such as Station Road, Bridge Street, Low Ousegate and Lord Mayor’s Walk.

However, a report on the proposals has outlined that, while North Yorkshire Police are backing the Gillygate plans, they have safety concerns over the Lendal Bridge aspect of the scheme because it may trap cyclists between vehicles and the kerb.

It also says the York Cycle Campaign “are wary of proposals to install such narrow cycle lanes and consider they are often worse than useless.

“Firstly, they encourage cyclists who do not know better to take up a position on the road where they are at greater risk.

“Secondly, they encourage aggressive behaviour by drivers towards cyclists who do know about the benefits of appropriate positioning on the road, and ride outside of the lanes.”

The Cyclists’ Touring Club also believes the lanes would be “of limited benefit” and may be too narrow, while the plans have received a mixed response from ward councillors.

But the report said: “Officers consider the proposals should generally improve safety for cyclists by encouraging vehicles to align themselves closer to the centre line, leaving a more consistent gap for cyclists to bypass queuing traffic.”

They have also amended some elements of the original Museum Street and Lendal Bridge plans to allay safety concerns.

If approved, the trial could start within months at an estimated £10,000 cost.