A NEWPORT pub owner has raised concerns about the Isle of Wight Council's new pop-up cycle lane schemes ­— warning they could shut down his business.

Pop-up bike lanes are to be introduced on the Island, which will mean some streets in Newport and Cowes will be made one-way only for cars and lorries.

Andrew Gibbs, owner of The Bargeman's Rest, Newport, says he anticipates the changes will have a devastating effect on his business, with a marked reduction in turnover.

Among the plans is a prohibition of motor vehicles on Little London, which drivers frequent when parking and visiting the Newport pub.

Isle of Wight County Press:

"Along with the already reduced turnover and extra costs associated with Covid-19, this could very possibly make the business unviable," said Andrew.

"Our customers at present drive past, checking to see if there are any vacant parking spaces on our site, and if not they continue on to the Sea Street car parks.

"If this option is not open to them,they will probably take their custom elsewhere.

"Furthermore, the narrowest part of the road directly in front of the Bargeman's will have to be two-way, as our deliveries and staff parking are located in the lane on the South side of the pub.

"This will increase the danger to pedestrians and cyclist in this already very narrow area."

The six schemes — running for up to 18 months — aim to make it easier for Islanders to swap their cars for bikes.

They have been made possible via a £64,000 emergency active travel grant from the government.

Read more here: Better for bikes? Cycle lanes are in but two way traffic's out

The Isle of Wight Council says it will monitor the changes and is prepared to review and adapt, where necessary.