Do we need cycle lanes at all?

I think we do. Though more segregated paths would be even better.

There are plenty of good studies to show that education and promotion have a fairly limited effect. The public perception is that cycling is very unsafe, requiring helmets, hi-viz gear and quick wits.

You’ll get more people cycling when they feel it is easy and safe, which means (good) lanes, segregated paths, traffic free areas and more welcoming urban environments.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/jun/03/britons-unmoved-cycling-campaigns

they had failed to consider cyclists in the re-design

Has he been sacked? If not why not?

Though the guy later showed himself to be an idiot discussing accident issues elsewhere in the city, blame sits with Council members, not him.