THE “ABSOLUTELY absurd” plan to let cyclists onto Perth’s pedestrianised streets remains on track after councillors decided to push ahead with the controversial proposal.

Perth and Kinross Council’s enterprise and infrastructure committee voted by seven votes to five to investigate further a number of perceived improvements for cyclists in the city centre, among them a 12-month trial of lifting the ban on them being allowed on the likes of High Street and St John Street.

Opponents of the change insist the administration is failing to take cognisance of vulnerable groups, such as disabled and blind people, who are “appalled” at the development.

Councillor John Flynn said, “People already have to dodge cyclists in the city, which is bad enough, and to now have to dodge them in pedestrianised areas is beyond the pale.

“You haven’t contacted disabled or blind groups about this. I have, and they are appalled at this.”

Mr Flynn moved that this part of the report be dismissed and was supported by councillor Alan Jack.

Mr Jack added, “The High Street is a pedestrian area and now we’re going to bring bikes in. It’s against our policy. It is a pedestrianised area for safety and it is grossly unfair that disabled people are going to be jeopardised.

“Cyclists already have roads, paths and pavements and this is absolute madness. I think it is an absolutely absurd idea and let’s throw this one out.”

Convener John Kellas spoke in favour of the trial, saying, “Experience has shown that all cyclists are likely to be considerate of people around them.

“This is about encouraging people to come out of their cars and get on their bikes. I doubt that it will create the problems envisaged.”

His depute convener, councillor Anne Gaunt, said Dundee, among other local authorities, allows cycling in pedestrianised zones, but Mr Flynn retorted, “I don’t think we need to copy Dundee.”

Councillor Bob Ellis, said, “I’m quite sure people will shout from the rooftops if it doesn’t seem to be working. I think we should give it a trial.

“If we’ve got it wrong we’ll put our hands up.”

A network of cycle routes was set up in and around Perth after a study in 2000, and since then the council has introduced measures to promote cycling around the city centre, mainly through cycle lanes, advance start areas at traffic signals and cycle parking.

In 2006 a study re-examined cycle provision in the city centre to assess how access could be improved. The resultant report said the one-way system frustrates cyclists and channels them on to busy roads.

As well as changes to the pedestrianised areas, the council agreed to further investigate options for the eastern end of High Street (between Tay Street and George Street), West Mill Street, Princes Street, South Street and Queen’s Bridge.