Local residents in Thatcham are in a row with cycling supporters after the council decided to remove double yellow lines on Lower Way. Councillors have called the decision in to the scrutiny committee.
"If parking is reintroduced, cyclists are likely to use the south pavement to pass parked vehicles rather than safely overtaking on the road," say councillors Owen Jeffery, Tony Vickers, Jeremy Cottam, Martin Colston and Stephanie Steevensen.
The dispute is part of 35 new parking and waiting measures across West Berkshire. After consultation, the temporary No Waiting At Any Time restriction at Lower Way is to be dropped and the yellow lines removed, following seven objections and 10 supportive responses.
The council says the original 2020 justification - that the route forms part of National Cycle Route 4 - is no longer valid because pavement and shared-use improvements and a new crossing now provide adequate provision for cyclists and pedestrians. Objectors want the restriction and lines made permanent and included in the final scheme.
Local resident David Mackay disagrees and says the pro-cyclist lobby "shouldn't be allowed to hold local residents and their visitors hostage when there is no road safety critical reason for prohibiting this".
Several residents say the changes look political or personal rather than based on community need, and claim the council's process lacks transparency, evidence and meaningful consultation.
Mr Mackay also argues Department for Transport guidance means double yellow lines "should be used sparingly as this is the severest restriction for residential roads" and that they "should only be used where there is clear justification."
He adds the yellow lines were "painted illegally by the council" and that "The yellow lines are still illegal." He says most properties have driveways and on-street parking was rare before the lines went down.
A briefing note will be prepared for the scrutiny committee to review. Until the committee decides, none of the parking amendments in the public consultation can be implemented.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
