Transport chiefs in Fife are being urged to take action on one of the region’s most dangerous routes for cyclists before someone is killed or seriously injured.
That’s the view of local cycling enthusiasts and councillors who say there is a huge disparity between what cyclists might deem safe and what other motorists believe is acceptable along the A91 from Cupar to Dairsie.
A feasibility study into a cycle path for the route has recently been completed but it is thought it could be some time – even years – before there are finances available for such a project.
Local Liberal Democrat councillor Jonny Tepp believes measures are needed now after recently walking the route with a resident whose only means of transport from Tayport to Cupar is by bike.
“The issues of concern to him would not be a danger to the driver of a motor vehicle,” Mr Tepp said.
“But there are patches that are very nasty for a cyclist, particularly if you are towing a trailer, for example.
“Narrow ruts in the road that are aligned with the cyclists direction of travel are one potentially lethal issue.
“On a road such as this one where drivers are not always as forgiving as they might be cyclists are often forced closer to the side of the road than is ideal.
“If they were to encounter such a rut it is not difficult to understand that the outcome could be a serious injury or fatality.”
He said it was essential that the council give additional consideration to the route until a cycle path is created.
“That means going above strict adherence to their guidelines and putting cycling safety first,” he added.
“Poorly maintained drainage covers are an issue along the length of this road, and other poor patches of road pose a hazard particularly travelling up the hill from Cupar Industrial Estate towards Cupar.”
Fife Council has deemed the road safe for all road users, but a spokesman said it continued to inspect the A91 between Cupar and Dairsie to ensure it meets maintenance standards.
“This route is not a designated cycleway, but the safety of all road users and wider community is considered when inspecting this route,” said a spokesman,
