Updated 9.50am

Transport Malta has informed Sliema Council that the bus lane at The Strand in Sliema has been suspended.   

The closure is part of measures being taken to ease traffic flows in view of road closures due to the Kappara junction works. 

Sliema councillor Michael Briguglio said that Transport Malta CEO James Piscopo had yesterday confirmed that the bus lane has been suspended and told councillors that the Traffic Management Committee would be debating concerns about amber traffic lights in its next session.

Traffic lights have been switched to flashing amber along the Strand, prompting concerns about pedestrian safety. 

Cyclists reacted sharply to news that the bus lane had been suspended. 

"During National Bicycle Counts we noted that the bus lane helped move 33% more cyclist of the Strand promenade that cyclists going in the opposite direction in this vital bicycle commuting route, so it contributed to both cyclist and pedestrian safety," the Bicycle Advocacy Group said. 

"Its not really clear how the authorities will achieve the same levels of rider safety."

It urged riders to stay well out of the car door zone and for car drivers to be on the lookout for cyclists in the left hand lane and to give them adequate space when passing.'