Political row erupts over Edinburgh cycling levels amid claims of cover up and cycle lanes “just not working”, but council insists active travel picture remains positive

A political spat has erupted in Edinburgh following the release of the city's latest active travel report. Rival politicians have accused Edinburgh Council of cherry-picking positive data, branding the document "a glossy booklet" that fails to reflect the reality of cycling levels, which they claim are "just not working." This comes amid allegations of a cover-up, with critics suggesting the council is deliberately downplaying negative trends to present an overly optimistic picture of active travel uptake in the Scottish capital.

This controversy highlights the perennial tension between local government initiatives and public perception, particularly concerning urban infrastructure projects like cycle lanes. Edinburgh has invested significantly in active travel, and the political stakes are high for demonstrating a return on that investment. Accusations of data manipulation, whether founded or not, undermine public trust and can fuel opposition to future cycling infrastructure, regardless of its actual efficacy or the broader benefits of active transport.

Ultimately, this isn't just about cycling statistics; it's about political narrative control. Both sides are pedalling their own version of reality, and the truth, as always, is likely somewhere in the middle, navigating the city's rather congested streets.