Two thirds of people back cycle superhighway through Regent's Park

A third route would go between Swiss Cottage (pictured) and the West End

Two thirds of people support plans for a cycle superhighway through Regent’s Park, according to the results of a consultation published today.

The scheme has provoked one of the fiercest battles of all of Boris Johnson’s proposed cycle routes, with more than 4,000 residents signing an online petition calling for it to be scrapped.

But the results of a Transport for London consultation suggests this sparked a backlash from cyclists determined to support the route linking Swiss Cottage and Oxford Circus.

Of the 6,200 responses — one of the largest number of replies received by TfL — 58 per cent supported and seven per cent partially supported the plans for cycle superhighway 11, or CS11, while 35 per cent were opposed.

One of the most controversial elements — the closure of four of the eight park gates for most of the day to deter rat-running drivers — was backed by 61 per cent and opposed by 39 per cent.

It will be up to Mr Johnson’s successor as Mayor to decide whether to proceed with the scheme, which would remove the gyratory at Swiss Cottage and direct cyclists along the park’s Outer Circle on a non-segregated route.

Tory candidate Zac Goldsmith told anti-CS11 campaigners he did not consider it a “fait accompli”. One residents’ group has threatened legal action to prevent the plans being implemented.

London Zoo said the part-closure of Macclesfield gate would make it “extremely difficult” for visitors and delivery vehicles.

About 5,000 vehicles a day use the park as a shortcut. Under the proposals, all eight gates would be open between 11am-3pm.

Andrew Gilligan, the Mayor’s cycling commissioner, said: “CS11 gives people in the community things they have wanted for years, such as a new Swiss Cottage and a more tranquil Regent’s Park.”

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