Green light for plan to clean up council cycle paths in city
CYCLE paths in Renfrewshire owned by the council will be “swept on a regular basis” after a motion was agreed in the chambers.
Councillor James MacLaren said the routes need to be kept clean to minimise the risk of punctures facing cyclists.
The Conservative rep for Bishopton and Bridge of Weir has been contacted by constituents concerned about the amount of debris on paths they have been using.
He warned if cyclists felt there was a risk of a flat tyre they would be more likely to travel on the road instead.
The elected member brought forward a motion on the subject at the recent full council meeting.
It called on the local authority to promote cycling for a healthy lifestyle and recognise that paths need to be kept tidy.
Councillor MacLaren, himself a keen cyclist, said: “If cyclists feel that there is a risk of them suffering punctures, whether it be on a commute or enjoying a leisurely bike ride, then they simply will not use a cycle path preferring the road which is kept clean by the traffic using it.
“The traffic scatters any grit, thorns and debris off the road, so it is a much cleaner surface.
“All I’m saying is, basically this motion calls on the council to ensure their paths, at least, are swept on a frequent basis.
“Sustrans do a good job in managing their paths, let’s see the council do it with theirs.”
There were no amendments or further comments and the motion passed.
Provost Lorraine Cameron said: “That was very good, very quick, the motion is agreed.”
When contacted by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, a Renfrewshire Council spokesperson confirmed the local authority will review the logistics
needed to introduce measures in the new year.
They said: “We understand the issues and concerns highlighted by the motion. Early in the new year we’ll review the logistics required to implement it.”