A number of traffic measures to improve active travel in Musselburgh were approved at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 11 November.
The introduction of a 30mph speed limit to replace the 40mph limit on the A199 Haddington Road between Wallyford Toll and Levenhall Roundabout was agreed.
Two-way cycling on Shorthope Street, a one-way road which is a key link for walkers, wheelers and cyclists between the River Esk and High Street, was also approved.
In addition, the Cabinet voted for the implementation of new and amended waiting, loading, and unloading restrictions on various streets in the town.
These Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) form part of the Musselburgh Active Toun (MAT) project which aims to deliver safer and more attractive routes for walking, wheeling, and cycling.
In partnerships with Transport Scotland, the council proposes to introduce six active travel routes between key destinations to improve connectivity and reduce reliance on cars. Following extensive public consultation and community engagement, proposals for three routes have advanced to the detailed design stage.
Healthier, more affordable journeys
Route 2 of the MAT network includes the construction of a segregated cycle track on the north side of Haddington Road, a carriageway which experiences heavy traffic volumes. A December 2023 study found the average speed on the street is 32.6mph and concluded the narrowing of the carriageway through the track’s installation, along with new pedestrian crossings, would lead to reduced vehicle speeds. The 30mph speed limit approved by the Cabinet will run from immediately west of Wallyford Toll to the start of the existing 30mph limit east of Levenhall Roundabout.
Under Route 1 of the MAT network, the existing narrow footway on Shorthope Street would be widened and cycling permitted southbound. The Cabinet’s approval of the new TRO revokes the one-way for all traffic byelaw which was put in place in 1937.
The Cabinet approved new and amended TROs prohibiting waiting, loading and unloading on a number of streets. These measures will remove indiscriminate parking to improve sightlines, enable two-way movement of vehciles, and increase the free flow of traffic. A full list of these streets can be found on the council website at https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/meetings/meeting/17477/cabinet
Improved environment
Councillor John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “East Lothian Council is working hard to increase opportunities for people to get around Musselburgh through walking, wheeling, and cycling.
“By reducing noise and emissions, they can be supported to choose healthier, more affordable journeys and contribute to an improved environment.”