DORSET Council has U-turned on controversial plans for a cycle lane along Custom House Quay on Weymouth Harbour following public backlash.

The scheme was due to be considered by the council's Planning committee today but was dropped at short notice after portfolio holder cllr Ray Bryan pulled the plug on the scheme, having deferred it from earlier planning meeting to give extra consideration to public feedback.

In an update shared to its social media accounts on Tuesday the council revealed that the cycle lane had been scrapped altogether.

A Dorset Council survey showed a split opinion, with 40 per cent in support, 50.3 per cent against and 9.7 per cent unsure of the proposal.

The Echo held its own survey - which showed similar results - 35 per cent in support, 63 per cent against, and 2 per cent undecided.

Custom House Quay plans that are still being considered at today's Planning meeting include removing free parking bays, and the creation of dedicated loading bays, to support marine and hospitality businesses in a bid to create a safer space and improve air quality, as the harbour moves towards a shared use between the two industries.

The public realm improvements are expected to cost around £500,000 and will be mainly paid for from external funding through the Department for Transport.

A temporary sitting out scheme has been in place at Custom House Quay since April 2021 - which the council said has been largely supported by locals, visitors and businesses.

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: “In September I decided to take extra time to consider the comments made through our informal survey and the formal consultation about the proposals for Custom House Quay, particularly in relation to the contraflow cycle lane. This is an important scheme and I wanted to make sure we had enough time to thoroughly consider all the options.

“Overall, I support this scheme as I think it will improve the area as intended, but I have asked for the contraflow cycle lane to be removed, as I know people are generally not in favour of it and I understand their reasons.

“If the committee decides to vote in favour of the proposals, minus the contraflow cycle lane, I hope that work can start soon. These positive improvements, coupled with forthcoming work to enhance the Weymouth Railway Station forecourt will improve the overall visitor experience and will bring benefits to all users of the harbour, businesses and residents.”