Ban subway cycling (From The Oxford Times)

Ban subway cycling

8:00am Thursday 16th August 2012 in Letters

Sir – Cycling in Green Road subway (Report, August 9) — it’s illegal to cycle on the footpath. Thanks, councillor Taylor. While I also would not like to cycle around the Green Road roundabout, I wouldn’t mind driving my car up High Street, Oxford, instead of going on such a circuitous route as is required, but it’s against the law. Surely a councillor is there to represent all, so please consider your pedestrians. If it’s too far for cyclists to push their bikes, then they probably are not fit enough to be riding the thing safely in the first place.

Mr Mann’s comments sadly fit in with the attitude of many irresponsible cyclists who seem to think that traffic lights and keep left signs are not applicable to them. Cycling through the subway while pedestrians are walking through is dangerous to both parties. When I was the local beat officer, I received complaints about the large number of cyclists using the subway as a shortcut.

I went there, stood down just inside, out of sight to those entering it on cycle and mopeds. I stopped them and reported them for summons. Thames Valley Police , could perhaps an officer in uniform do as I did and issue a few fixed penalty notices or give a few words of advice?

Oxfordshire County Council , I know there are restrictions on finance but get a sign made, banning cycling in the subway. Support your police and your pedestrians. Councillor Taylor, support this action! There are more voters on foot than on cycles.

Chris Payne, Bicester