Cycling UK delivers almost 10,000 objection letters to A63 cycle ban plan

By Adrian Wills
Monday, 12 March 2018
Cycling UK has delivered almost 10,000 letters of objection to proposals by Highways England to ban cyclists on the A63 near Hull.

The plans to ban cyclists on the 15-mile stretch of road between the North Cave interchange and the Daltry Street interchange were raised following concerns about road safety.

Delivering more than 9,500 letters objecting to the ban to Highways England in Leeds today (Monday, March 12), Duncan Dollimore, Head of Campaigns, said: “One of Highways England’s arguments for banning cyclists is that they cannot keep up with traffic, but they’re not banning slow-moving vehicles like tractors, farm vehicles or horse and carts.

If they ban cyclists because they cannot keep up with the traffic, then they’re going to be banned from every A-road in the country and large sections of B-roads.

Duncan Dollimore, Head of Campaigns, Cycling UK 

“If they ban cyclists because they cannot keep up with the traffic, then they’re going to be banned from every A-road in the country and large sections of B-roads.

"It’s a non-sensical piece of logic and if Highways England wants to come up with reasons why cyclists shouldn’t be riding on this road, they need to come up with some evidence based reasons.”

The letters of objection were collected during a four-week consultation period and delivered by Mr Dollimore by cargo bike today.

“This sends a strong message to Highways England, one we hope it will listen to carefully, and reconsider plans which would be in stark contrast to its own Cycling Strategy which sets out a cycling vision of contributing to a high quality cycling network, suitable and safe for everyone," Mr Dollimore said.

Highways England respond

In response, a Highways England spokesperson said: “Before any scheme is implemented Highways England will carry out a further, targeted consultation with key groups including our partners in Safer Roads Humber and cycling groups. An announcement will be made before the autumn outlining our decision.

“The safety of everyone who uses our roads is our top priority.  We continually review safety along this route and are developing cycling and safety improvements for the A63.”

Highways England has yet to set a date for a final decision. 

 

Notes to editors

  1. Cycling UK, the national cycling charity, inspires and helps people to cycle and keep cycling, whatever kind of cycling they do or would like to do. Over a century’s experience tells us that cycling is more than useful transport; it makes you feel good, gives you a sense of freedom and creates a better environment for everyone. www.cyclinguk.org

Press contact information

For more information contact the national Cycling UK Press Office on 01483 238 315, 07786 320 713 or email [email protected]

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