GLASGOW’S Avenues project is a “lovely idea but totally impractical” for the blind and those with disabilities to navigate it is claimed.

The local authority is investing £115 million across the city to develop integrated routes for cyclists and pedestrians. The first phase to extend the pavements and cycle lanes on Sauchiehall Street is due to be completed by the end of May.

But concerns have been raised by members of the National Federation of the Blind of the UK (NFBUK) as well as Labour councillor Robert Mooney that the project is not safe for people with disabilities.

Sandy Taylor, who is a member of the NFBUK, says the height of a kerb needs to be at least 60mm which guide dogs recognise, but the distance between the new cycle lane and walkway in Sauchiehall Street is only 20mm. This means that guide dogs and those who rely on a white cane to walk around could easily end up on the cycle space without realising.

Mr Taylor explained: “When this project is complete, we will not be able to walk along Sauchiehall Street as it is too dangerous. I am told the Avenue’s Project on Sauchiehall Street is lovely but it is totally impractical. It is a no-go area for the disabled, blind and people with a pushchair.

“Guide dogs are trained to follow a pavement and take their owners to the edge of it, where there is a controlled crossing. They sit down and wait for instruction. There must be proper segregation if not the dog could wonder onto the cycle lane. We need proper kerbs. Pavements are supposed to be safe areas for pedestrians.”

A public consultation regarding the project was held last week. A council spokesman said: “We consulted with a wide range of disability and mobility organisations about the design for Sauchiehall Avenue and the consensus view was that the approach taken was the best solution to meeting the needs of as many groups as possible.”

Mr Taylor who lives in Kirkintilloch but used to run businesses in Glasgow when he was sighted says the only option is for a controlled crossing.

He believes that controlled crossings over the cycle lane as well as the road are key to making the scheme safer for the blind and disabled.

At a pedestrian crossing a small button is available to help deaf and visually impaired people cross the street. When they feel it rotate they have right of way.

Councillor Robert Mooney, who is registered blind, agreed. He said: “I have raised many concerns about this project but have been told that Glasgow is excellent at providing access for people with disabilities.

“Guide dogs don’t have any traffic sense. That’s why we need the controlled crossing to help us.

“We need controlled crossings to help us navigate the streets safely. If they are not included in the Avenue we won’t be able to go to those parts of Glasgow. Blind people will become isolated.

“This is about the safety of the general public. I do believe there should be more cycle lanes but they need to be made properly.”