Cycle signs in the middle of the busy Stotfold Road, Arlesey

A COUNCIL has admitted “an error of judgement” after blundering workmen painted bicycle symbols down the centre of a busy street, encouraging cyclists to ride down the middle of the road.

Central Bedfordshire Council workmen painted the symbols at intervals down the length of Stotfold Road in Arlesey, close to the central reservation line.

Cyclist Pete Holland, who lives on the street, told national press he believes the problem may have occurred because cars are parked along the side of the road early in the morning and in the evenings.

“I think the workmen may have come here during those times and, as they couldn’t move any of the vehicles, they have just painted the symbols in the middle where there was space,” he said. “It’s an epic fail.”

Cllr Brian Spurr, the council’s executive member for sustainable Communities (Services), said: “There has clearly been an error of judgement in where they have been placed.

“We apologise for the mistake and have had them removed today (Wednesday) by our contractor at no cost to council tax payers and without causing damage to the carriageway.

“We are reviewing our processes to avoid such errors in the future.”