Debris-filled cycle lanes

Sir, – As a long-time bicycle commuter in Dublin, I am writing to express my dismay at the sheer volume of debris accumulating in our many newly segregated cycle lanes. It would appear street-sweeping vehicles are no longer able to access them.

Punctures used to be a rare annoyance but are now becoming a frequent, costly occurrence. Two in as many months, requiring inner tube and tyre replacement on both occasions, such was the damage caused. My tale of woe in the bike shop was met with the response that two punctures in two months is lucky, and they’ve some people in on a weekly basis.

While bike lane segregation is to be welcomed, even the tokenistic style employed here, I’m looking at you, plastic bollards, the lack of access to clean the lanes is a considerable downside. At a time when cycling is being encouraged, debris-filled cycle lanes are adding both unnecessary additional hazards and costs for cyclist. – Yours, etc,

AOIFE KANE,