Steps to put brakes on dangerous city cyclists
A CAMPAIGN has been launched to try to encourage cyclists to ride more slowly and considerately in pedestrianised parts of Leicester city centre.
Council bosses are concerned about the manner in which some riders pedal quickly through the main shopping streets where cars are excluded but cycling is permitted.
There are concerns some pedestrians – particularly blind, deaf, disabled and elderly people – are being intimidated by fast-moving riders.
About 30 signs are going up around the pedestrian area carrying the message that “considerate cyclists welcome” and “cyclists: thank you for slowing down”.
The council said its aim is to remind bike users to cycle responsibly, as well as make sure anyone who uses the city centre is aware the space is shared between pedestrians and cyclists.
Katie France is the Leicester project co-ordinator for the walking charity Living Streets.
She said: “Cycling on pavements can make pedestrians feel vulnerable, especially those who are visually impaired, suffer hearing loss or have mobility issues.
“These signs will help remind all road users this is a shared space and should ensure people can walk in safety and comfort.”
Leicester deputy mayor Adam Clarke, who leads on environment and health, said: “We want to encourage people to travel to the city centre by bike, on foot or using public transport and once they are here, our large, peo- ple-friendly pedestrianised zone gives priority to people ahead of vehicles.
“Bikes are welcome in our pedestrianised zone, too, but obviously we ask that cyclists show consideration to people on foot.
“These signs and our safer cycling campaign are a simple, straightforward reminder of that message.”
Food delivery riders are frequently seen riding at speed through the city centres as the time they take to reach customers is reflected in their pay.
The city council said it has attempted to contact several well-known delivery firms to discuss safer cycling but without success so far.
The city council’s Choose How You Move and Ride Leicester teams were working with British Cycling and Sustrans to offer some free activities in Humberstone Gate yesterday.
Jonathan Clarkson, the spokesman for the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Road Safety Partnership, said: “We fully support this initiative.
“It is important that all road users respect everyone’s journey.
“I would remind cyclists and pedestrians of the simple things they can do to help improve safety in the city centre: look around, be aware, be considerate and travel with less haste.”
The city council runs regular Bikeability training sessions to help people improve their cycling skills, training more than 2,000 young people and 70 adults per year.
The Bikeability scheme includes teaching cyclists how to take particular care when riding near pedestrians, especially vulnerable pedestrians with physical, sight or hearing impairments.