The safety of cyclists is being compromised because of Fife Council reporting mechanisms, it has been claimed.
Tay Bridgehead councillor Johnny Tepp has called on the local authority to repair a section of cycle route between the Tay Bridge and Tay Road Bridge after claiming riders are facing uncharted hazards on the section.
He hosted a walk with transport officials to highlight the problem on the B946 having originally raised concerns over maintenance of the stretch back in October.
He said he is alarmed to have learned upgrades are only initiated if hazards are thought to endanger the drivers of motor vehicles, a process Mr Tepp says is unacceptable.
He said: “Road maintenance managers informed me repairs and patching or resurfacing of this road would only take place if maintenance was considered necessary to ensure the safety of motor vehicles.
“This meant even though it was a National Cycle Route the needs of cyclists were simply not taken into consideration and road surveys were not recording these hazards so that officially they did not exist.
“I hope that the roads department will now reconsider their policy position on this issue and target resources to this key section of the National Cycle Route 777.
“As well as repairing the cycling hazards, I would like to see cycle-friendly features including ‘National Cycle Route’ signs that provide a clear signal to all road users here.
“I believe that enhancement will not only make the route safer for local commuters and leisure cyclists, but will also mean that we can be proud to advertise the route as a real jewel in the north east Fife tourist crown.”
Fife Council said it operates a “robust” inspection and repair regime to keep its roads and cyclepaths in serviceable condition.
A spokesperson for the local authority added: “The standards used in Fife are common to other Scottish local authorities and are in line with the Code of Practice for Highway Maintenance and Management – Well Maintained Highways 2005.
“As well as our routine inspections, road users are encouraged to report any items that cause concern and this can easily be done via our call centre, or online. All reported defects are inspected and where necessary repairs are carried out.
“Where a safety defect is identified as an emergency, we aim to conclude repair within 24 hours and for routine safety defects within five working days.”
