The creation of a contra-flow cycle lane in Wimbledon town centre has been struck out of proposals to improve traffic conditions after being branded "a recipe for death".

The demand for its exclusion came from Conservative Councillor Stephen Hammond at a Merton Council meeting, on Tuesday night, to discuss a cycling and walking project.

Councillor Hammond, who is vice-chairman of the council's street management overview and scrutiny panel, told fellow members a cyclist friend had condemned the idea of the contra-flow track as "a recipe for death".

The project broadly aims to improve accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists to and from the town centre and Wimbledon station.

It is hoped it will make The Broadway, Hartfield Road and adjoining roads "more welcoming" and improve safety.

However, it was criticised by panel member Councillor Horst Bullinger for being too pro-cyclist at the expense of pedestrians.

It proposes a 20mph speed limit, new crossings for cyclists and pedestrians, raised table junction entry treatments to side roads, narrowing of pavements to accommodate cycle tracks and the provision of more cycle parking facilities.

Panel members recommended transport and planning cabinet member Councillor Russell Makin agree the project for informal consultation, with the exception of the contra-flow bike track.

January 27, 2003 11:00