A PLAN to convert one of the two Jubilee Bridge walkways into a protected cycle lane is to be given a 12-month trial.

Barrow and Furness independent MP John Woodcock first tabled the idea several years ago and has received backing from the Lakes Road Club and Barrow Central Wheelers.

Last September Mr Woodcock held talks with Cumbria County Council highways chief Stephen Hall about a pilot scheme and the council’s local highways sub-committee has now given its approval for a trial.

Mr Woodcock, himself a keen cyclist, said: “The bridge was opened in 1908 when the volume of traffic and size of the vehicles using it were far different from the situation we have in 2019.

“Around 24,000 vehicles use the bridge every day and that causes all kinds of problems. Many cyclists ride on the walkways because they judge the bridge to be too dangerous - and that makes it hazardous for pedestrians, including families with strollers and pushchairs.

“I thought the safety dividends would be high if one walkway was converted into a cyclists-only route and I am grateful that the council has agreed give it a trial.”

The scheme is to be piloted on the northern walkway and signage will be put in place to advise cyclists and pedestrians about the new arrangements. Video surveys will be carried out along with a report to gauge the success of the trial.

A county council spokesman said: “The council supports the proposal to implement a trial scheme in principal, and this has been considered by Barrow Highway’s Working Group.”