Cycling campaigners claim Dumfries is now too dangerous for riders.

They blame “gaps in the cycle network” and missing, run-down and tiny lanes for safety issues which have seen riders knocked off their bikes.

One roundabout even has disjointed lanes dotted around it, meaning cyclists have to dodge cars at each junction.

The area is known as the birthplace of Kirkpatrick Macmillan, who invented the pedal bicycle.

Sally Hinchcliffe, 55, of Cycling Dumfries, said: “We’re very proud of Kirkpatrick Macmillan here – but not enough to make it possible for anyone else to cycle.

“Half of the problem is that there are paths where you have to dismount, go across the road slowly or the entire cycle path just ends.

“There will be one little piece of infrastructure built – but it doesn’t connect.

“There are a couple of big roundabouts too where the cycle lane goes outside it – which is the worst place you can be on a bike if you are not turning left.”

She added: “These problems are so actively dangerous.”

Cycling Dumfries has sent a detailed report highlighting the missing links to Dumfries and Galloway Council. A council statement said: “Improving connectivity and sustainable travel in the region is a long-term process which requires a strategic approach.”

It said many of the issues detailed in the “missing links” report had already been identified by the council and it was working to “find appropriate options”.

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