News from...

27 October 2014

PR 5072 Draft

Communications Team Town Hall

Peterborough PE1 1HG

New seven-day cycling restrictions to make Bridge Street safer

Restrictions prohibiting cyclists from riding along Bridge Street in the city

centre during certain times of the day will be extended to cover Sundays.

The existing restrictions cover Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm, and

have been in place for many years to protect both pedestrians and

cyclists.

Sunday is now recognised as one of the main shopping days and

Peterborough City Council has carefully reviewed whether the restrictions

should be extended throughout the week.

It is expected that the new restrictions would come into effect after

Christmas, once new signs have been erected.

The city council held a consultation on the issue during July and August.

A total of 200 responses were submitted from individuals and

organisations. Of these 200 responses, 167 were against extending the

restrictions and 22 in favour, with 11 people making general comments.

Organisations commenting on the proposals included Sustrans and

Peterborough Environment City Trust, who opposed the extension to

Sundays, while the police, Peterborough Age UK and Peterborough

Association for the Blind were in support.

Councillor Lucia Serluca, the cabinet member for city centre

management, said: “This has been one of the most difficult decisions we

have had to make. On the one hand objectors have pointed out that

restricting cycling on Bridge Street conflicts with our environment capital

aspiration, but on the other supporters have highlighted the danger that

some irresponsible cyclists cause to pedestrians, and particularly children

and the elderly, in this vibrant shopping street.

"Following significant investment, Bridge Street is one of the busiest in

the city with pavement cafes, children’s rides and entertainment. We

have taken our time to very carefully consider all of the responses from

residents and organisations on this important issue and have decided that

public safety must ultimately outweigh what is a relatively small

inconvenience to cyclists.

"I would stress that we remain fully committed to supporting cycling in

Peterborough and we will continue to work with organisations like

Sustrans to improve facilities for cyclists in the city. The restrictions are

the most responsible action to take to keep our residents safe.

“As well as extending the restrictions to Sundays, we will also ensure that

it is properly enforced throughout the week. Many people have reported

or witnessed near misses between shoppers and irresponsible cyclists,

and as well as enforcement we will be displaying better signage to

highlight the restrictions."

Ends.

For news releases and information on council services, visit our website at www.peterborough.gov.uk