‘Don’t forget pedestrians’ warns Cllr

A LABOUR councillor has warned that the construction phase for the new cycleway will cause problems for pedestrians.

Cllr Rachel Burgess, who represents Norreys Ward where the works are taking place, says that the removal of traffic islands along London Road will make life harder for residents with pushchairs or mobility issues.

And she worries that the council will be as slow to react to problems as they have been over the Market Place regeneration.

“Everybody welcomes the provision of extra space for cycles but I am concerned that during the construction phase, cars will be prioritised over local residents,” she said.

“The loss of four pedestrian islands and two traffic islands, which act as pedestrian refuges, will make crossing the road much harder if there are no mitigating measures, especially for residents with mobility issues or pushing a buggy.

“Norreys residents have also seen how slow and unresponsive the Council was in addressing accessibility issues during the town centre regeneration. We cannot let the same mistake be repeated. Apologies in advance are not enough.

“In addition, cyclists need their own space – they should not be competing with walkers for the same space and making walkers feel threatened.”

And Cllr Burgess said that she was

“disappointed” that the borough council had not reallocated road space to cyclists as part of its response to coronavirus.

“The guidance is clear that in areas with high levels of public transport use, the Council needs to act ‘as swiftly as possible’ according to the government,” she explained

“This means that Woodley and Earley, which border Reading and benefit from the excellent bus services provided by Reading Buses, should have measures in place to encourage walking and cycling.

“Reading Borough Council has acted swiftly, and has already introduced emergency pop-up cycle lanes as a direct response to the government guidance. This shows what can be done if the political will is there.

“Everyone has commented how much more pleasant and safe the roads are at the moment. Lots of people have discovered they can work from home. We need to do everything in our power to keep cars off the road – this is a real measure of how serious the council is about tackling the Climate Emergency.

“I love cycling. As well as commuting when I can, and travelling around Wokingham by bike, I cycle with my children and we do the Wokingham Bikeathon every year.

“Cycling needs to become part of everyone’s daily life, but for this to happen, the Council must prioritise safe cycling for all.”