Newton Abbot parks to allow cycling

70-year-old byelaws to be lifted

Teignbridge Council is shifting into top gear with its plans to change a 70-year-old law which bans cycling from some of its parks.

Changing the law is seen as a key part of a new strategy to help change travel habits and give cyclists safe paths to get around without coming into conflict with cars.

Now the council has voted to go ahead with a new cycle path in the Bakers Park area of Newton Abbot which will eventually provide a safe and segregated cycle route between the town and Ogwell.

It has published the results of a consultation on changing the 1951 byelaw which bans people from cycling in five parks including Bakers Park. Without changing the law, the Ogwell link can’t go ahead.

It currently bans people from riding any bicycle, tricycle or similar machine in Bakers Park, Courtenay Park, Forde Park, Osborne Park and Powderham Park. The proposed replacement byelaw would allow cyclists into the parks, but only where there is a right of way for cycles or a designated route.

Electric bikes limited to a top speed of 15 mph would be among the bikes allowed into the parks.

Of the people who responded to the survey, 64 per cent agreed with the change. Those who disagreed said they were worried about conflicts between cyclists and pedestrians.

Teignbridge Council’s report on the consultation says: “One of the main barriers identified for residents not going on family cycling trips or for not cycling to school, to work or to shop is not feeling safe due to the volume of road traffic.

“This is of particular concern for vulnerable users such as young children, disabled or less confident riders.

“By enabling people to use clearly marked local park routes, the council hopes to remove some of the obstacles that prevent people from a wider diversity of communities opting for more active travel methods while at the same time making sure parks remain safe for walking, for children’s play and for relaxing.”