An update from the Principal Engineer (Design & Property Services) at Dundee City Council :
"The City Engineers and Sustainable Transport Team are currently developing a new design for a proposed footway along the north side of Riverside Drive, extending from the Riverside Pavilion to Riverside Approach. Please see the general arrangement drawing. The budget for this work is being met from the Transport Scotland funded – Cycling and Walking Safer Routes.
This footpath is being proposed as a direct response to complaints made by members of the public during the scenario when the flood gates are closed along Riverside Drive. When the gates are closed there is no direct safe alternative route on the north side of the road. We receive regular complaints about this during the flood gate closures. This section is the missing link where no footpath exists between the City Centre and the pedestrian crossing at the Riverside Pavilion. It is hoped that this footpath will improve access for all and help minimise disruption for pedestrians during storm events.
The proposed design features a 3.5-metre-wide bound shared use path that will pass through the existing tree avenue. This width has been maximised to ensure cyclists and pedestrians can both pass safely. The footpath has been designed to not damage any tree roots and will provide better pedestrian access for events such as the carnival and circus.
During internal consultation on this project it was highlighted there is occasional unauthorised vehicle access to this area and parking and unsafe access and egress by vehicles. This is mainly during events such as the carnival and circus but, more recently concerning the parking of caravans and mobile homes.
To help control vehicle access and protect the footpath the project is proposing a galvanised steel trip rail that will run along the edge of the carriageway between Barnetts and the Pavilion. This will be similar in appearance as the exiting U-shaped hoop trip rail at Barnetts."