Demand for improved cycling safety follows Belfast fatality

Following the death of a cyclist in Belfast, demands have emerged for enhanced safety measures for bicycle routes within the city. Gary McMahon, aged 58, passed away on Thursday subsequent to a collision involving a lorry in north Belfast. The specific circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, prompting police to issue an appeal for individuals possessing information or dash-cam footage to come forward. Nuala McAllister, an Alliance Party MLA, stated that the tragic fatality ought to serve as a “wake-up call for action”. She intends to bring up this matter during the upcoming session of the Northern Ireland Assembly, scheduled for Monday. Anne Madden, who serves as policy manager for the charity Sustrans, characterized the current cycling infrastructure in north Belfast as “really poor”. She asserted that there were “no safe cycle lanes in north Belfast”. She further elaborated, stating that “there are a few advisory cycle lanes but that means that cars can park in them, so most cyclists are forced to weave around traffic – and there’s a horrendous amount of traffic in north Belfast”. Ms Madden recounted that after cycling to work in the city centre, she sends a text message to her partner saying: “I’ve arrived alive.” She concluded, “Nobody should have to do that.” A representative from the Department for Infrastructure, the entity overseeing roads in Northern Ireland, issued a statement: “The department is very sorry to hear of the death of Mr McMahon yesterday and send our condolences to his family and friends.” The spokesperson added, “As with all fatal collisions we will be working closely with the PSNI to assist them with their investigation.“” They also stated, “The department is continuing to progress a number of cycling infrastructure improvements in accordance with the Belfast Cycle Network Delivery Plan.” Furthermore, the spokesperson noted, “We have been undertaking engagement with key user groups in the development of these schemes before we commence statutory processes to implement legislation for new cycle routes.” Mr McMahon’s funeral is scheduled for Tuesday.