CYCLISTS in York are concerned proposed changes to a junction could lead to the removal of a cycle lane and cause peak-time tailbacks.

After a review of the junction layout at Water End and Clifton Green, City of York Council is investigating the possibility of reinstating a lane allowing cars to turn left, after it was made a cycle lane in 2009.

The plans recommend a left and right filter lane for cars, with a cycle lane between the two, forcing cyclists to ride between lanes of traffic to the junction.

Coun Andy D’Agorne, the council’s Green Party leader, called for the public to support the plans, or risk losing the cycle lane altogether. In an email seen by The Press, he said: “This compromise is something that I pushed for in the task group when Coun Roger Pierce was questioning the orbital route concept and pressing for the cycle lane to be removed altogether.

“I’m sure that if this scheme doesn’t get overwhelming support and then implemented quickly, the complete removal of the cycle lane to reinstate the left turn filter lane will be a manifesto pledge from the Tories and possibly also Labour in next year’s local elections.”

Paul Hepworth, North Yorkshire spokesman for national cyclists’ organisation the CTC, said rush-hour tailbacks could deter cyclists from using the central lane.

“This already occurs regularly at the inbound centre cycle lane by the Royal York Hotel gardens, where there is a short left hand filter lane to Leeman Road,” he said.

“This could discourage use of the planned orbital cycle route in the Clifton area, by less confident cyclists.

“Any short-term gain from reinstatement of the Water End left-hand filter lane would ultimately be eroded by longer term increases in motor vehicle traffic across the city.”

A decision on the plans, which will cost about £35,000 to implement, is due in December.