CYCLIST safety in the Newcastle CBD was again on the agenda when state Shadow Minister for Active Transport, Jo Haylen stopped into the city.
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Cycleways and cyclist safety has been a focus for advocate groups and politicians since two people lost their lives in separate incidents this year.
Then in July mountain bike rider Danny Egan died after falling off his bike while crossing the light rail tracks in Newcastle East.
"How many more people have to get hurt before something is done?" Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said on Thursday, when he met with Ms Haylen and Metro Cycles owner Bernard Hockings.
"Newcastle CBD is dangerous for cyclists.
"The fact that the government spent $700 million on a transport project in the Newcastle CBD and failed to make any provisions for active transport is absurd."
Local cycling advocates in Newcastle have long argued for better cycling infrastructure, including dedicated cycleways on key travel routes across the city.
The meeting was used to call for adequate safety measures including overtaking lanes and clear signage.
"The government cannot continue to ignore the multitude of accidents, including a fatal accident, since the opening of the new Newcastle Light Rail," Ms Haylen said.
"To make it safe for everyone to walk and cycle, and help beat congestion, the government needs to invest now in separated dedicated cycleways and walking infrastructure."
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