A trial of new bus lane operating hours on the between East Milton Road and London Road - Petitions (Open)
Petition details
We call on the City of Edinburgh Council to reconsider the proposed bus lane changes and associated parking/loading restrictions, and to properly assess the impact these changes will have on local businesses, residents, elderly and disabled people. While we understand the importance of improving public transport, these changes cannot come at the expense of the small businesses that serve our communities every day.
The businesses along this stretch rely heavily on passing trade and customers being able to stop nearby. This includes florists, hairdressers, food businesses and other independent shops. Many customers are elderly, disabled or have limited mobility and simply cannot park a significant distance away and walk. Businesses also depend on practical access for deliveries, collections and loading throughout the working day. Removing or severely restricting this access risks reducing footfall and putting already struggling independent businesses under even greater financial pressure.
If businesses can no longer afford to survive, Edinburgh risks being left with more empty shops and declining local high streets. We ask the Council to pause and reconsider these proposals, consult properly with affected businesses and residents, and find a solution that improves public transport while protecting accessibility, loading, parking and the future of our local businesses.
