The removal of a cycling lane in Marsascala has infuriated riders who say they will now risk getting hit by a car door flung open in their path.

The “part-time” cycle track along Salini Road has been turned into a permanent parking lane, increasing parking slots in the locality by some 130.

Marsascala mayor Mario Calleja told this newspaper the lane was reserved to cyclists between 8am and 6pm on weekdays. However, since not many made use of it and the locality was feeling the pressure of lack of parking spots, it was decided to turn it into a parking lane.

The 24/7 parking lane has been introduced for a trial period but the plan is to redo the promenade “sometime in the future” and include a proper bicycle lane.

We’re not sure how it’s going to work out, as we cannot ride on the promenade because it’s illegal, and yet having cars parked on both sides is a potential hazard

When contacted, a spokesman for the Bicycling Advocacy Group said bicycle lanes should be improved not removed. This particular track had not been an ideal bicycle lane because it was raised and not at street level. Cyclists could easily fall off the curb and get hurt.

It was also a “part-time” cycling lane, open to cyclists only while they were at work.

Jim Wightman acknowledged the need for parking space but also raised the issue of cyclists’ safety. “We’re not sure how it’s going to work out, as we cannot ride on the promenade because it’s illegal, and yet having cars parked on both sides of the road is a potential hazard.

“Cyclists can easily be ‘doored’ by distracted car drivers,” he said.