Further correspondence from council:
As Frenchy notes, there are other sections along the tram route where the gap between the tram rails and the kerb is of a similar width to that at West Maitland Street. However, this is not the only factor that has to be taken into account and each location has to be considered on its individual merits.
If a tram were to come up behind a cyclist on West Maitland Street, it would then have to reduce its speed and remain behind the cyclist all the way to the Haymarket tram stop. This would either result in it missing its allocated phase at the Haymarket traffic signals; potentially disrupting the tram timetable, or the junction phasing being altered to prioritise the tram; increasing delays for other traffic and for pedestrians waiting to cross the road.
In addition, there is a suitable alternative route for cyclists to both Dalry Road and Haymarket Terrace, via Torphichen Street and Morrison Street, which involves only a relatively minor diversion.
The impact of a tram having to follow a cyclist through the section of Princes Street outside the Royal Academy would be considerably less than at West Maitland Street. In addition, the alternative routes to avoid this section involve considerable diversions and incorporate areas that are challenging for cyclists.
The situation at Haymarket Yards regarding potential delays to trams is similar and, at present, there are no reasonable alternative routes for cyclists.
If cyclists were to be permitted to travel westbound on West Maitland Street, there would also be significant difficulties in providing a suitable route through the traffic signals at the Haymarket junction, for cyclists wishing to travel from West Maitland Street into Dalry Road. It is likely that significant alterations would be required to the junction layout and these could impact negatively on pedestrians, trams, buses and other traffic.
The decision not to permit cyclists to travel west on West Maitland Street was given serious consideration during the design of the tram network. Having reviewed the issue, following Frenchy’s enquiry, I am satisfied that this was the correct decision.
I think they severely overestimate the impact a cyclist on West Maitland Street can have on a tram's speed. Trams are more likely to slow me down. Granted, this might change slightly if all cyclists were going that way, but I don't think so.
I don't see what Dalry Road has got to do with anything - I don't want Morrison St closed, I just want West Maitland Street opened as well.
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