Edinburgh Cowgate: 21mph Traffic Ban Delayed Until Months After Fatal Crash

Background:

The City of Edinburgh Council has been criticized for delaying the implementation of a 20mph speed limit on the Cowgate until months after a fatal crash occurred on the road.

The council had initially planned to introduce the 20mph limit in May 2023 as part of a wider effort to improve road safety in the city center. However, the implementation was delayed until September 2023 due to "unforeseen circumstances," according to the council.

Fatal Crash:

In July 2023, a 25-year-old woman was killed when she was struck by a car on the Cowgate. The driver of the car was arrested and charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

Following the crash, there was public outcry over the delay in implementing the 20mph speed limit. Many residents and local businesses argued that the lower speed limit could have prevented the tragedy.

Council's Response:

The council has defended its decision to delay the implementation of the 20mph limit, stating that it needed to carry out a full consultation with the public and businesses before making any changes to the road layout.

However, the council has admitted that the consultation process took longer than expected, and that it could have done more to communicate with the public about the reasons for the delay.

Criticism:

Critics of the council have accused it of putting bureaucracy ahead of public safety. They argue that the delay in implementing the 20mph limit was inexcusable and that it could have cost lives.

The council has said it will now review its consultation process to ensure that future decisions are made in a more timely manner.

Conclusion:

The fatal crash on the Cowgate has highlighted the importance of road safety in Edinburgh. The council has been criticized for delaying the implementation of a 20mph speed limit on the road, and there are calls for a review of the consultation process.

The council has said it will now review its consultation process and that it remains committed to improving road safety in the city center.