Wednesday 13 May 2015
Media Enquiry from BBC Radio Guernsey:
BBC Guernsey will be running a feature on cycle paths.
- Are there any figures for how the different paths are being used? (breakdown with cyclists/ pedestrians/ those using mobility vehicles)
- Can we see them?
- What if anything is being done to encourage new users?
Environment Department Response:
There are several designated tarmac cycle paths around the Island, most notably the eastern seafront cycle path that stretches between Bulwer Avenue and the North Beach. There is also a network of coastal paths which are regularly enjoyed by many cyclists, pedestrians, dog walkers, tour guides and visitors alike. Many users can be seen sharing these spaces, especially at weekends, during the evenings and over Bank Holidays. However, there is currently no cost effective way of regularly monitoring the volumes of these users on the many paths around the island.
While the designated cycle paths are suitable for all users, some of the coastal paths (due to their undulating nature) are not suitable for some people with limited mobility or those who use mobility vehicles. However, there are a number of Route Tranquilles in quiet areas of the island which may be better suited for those with limited mobility to enjoy.
The Department did carry out specific counts on the tarmac cycle path along the eastern seafront as part of its data collection process for the Transport Strategy report where counts of between 93 and 148 cycle movements were observed between the hours of 7.30 and 9.00am, representing between about 3 and 5% of the travelling public during these times. Surveys were also undertaken in regard to the use of the cycle contra flows in the vicinity of St Sampsons High School in the period shortly after the school was opened and these indicated between 75 and 100 cyclists using the cycle contraflows around school start and finish times.
The Department has already increased cycle parking provision in St. Peter Port but has a number of other initiatives that it plans to introduce in order to further encourage cyclists and, subject to Strategy funding being approved by the States, they include:
The introduction of a range of improvements along the eastern cycle path to make cycling safer and easier;
The installation of more cycle hoops and shelters;
The development of the current cycling proficiency scheme (known now as Bikeability) within schools to encourage more children to ride their bikes and the introduction of cycling training sessions for adults;
Consideration of ideas for encouraging the use of electric bikes;
Reviewing options for the creation of more cycle contra-flows;
Reviewing the current network of Ruettes Tranquilles and other off-road cycle routes to see whether they can be linked together to create a more joined up network of routes for vulnerable road users to use.
Further information on cycle and walking routes is also freely available on the Traffic and Transport section of the government website: www.gov.gg/cycleguernsey.
Other relevant contacts include:
The Guernsey Bicycle Group, with whom the Department consults regularly, is an active cycle group on the Island who frequently meet and offer free cycle tours. Their activities are promoted on their social media and websites;
VisitGuernsey who have a comprehensive guide book on cycle routes around the island which is available from the Visitor Information Centre, along with information on walking routes and walking events such as Tasty Walks, spring and autumn Walking Weeks and guides tours that encompass using some of the paths, which is available to the local and visitor population. This information along with an interactive walking map is also on the VisitGuernsey website: www.visitguernsey.com/content/tasty-walks.
Contact Information:
Colin Le Page, Principal Traffic Officer
Environment Department
Tel: 01481 243400
