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THREE.. Bad infrastructure... and the problems it causes
What do we do about shared-use pavements?
A painted line and a sign on a pavement does not a good cycle facility make. Planners should instead always try to improve the general road environment first, which means giving over more space on the road for cyclists
Generally speaking, the Campaign believes that pavement provision should be the provision of last resort. Planners should always try to improve the general road environment first, which means making space for cyclists.
If pavements and paths are to be designated as shared use, much more needs to be done than providing a painted line and a signpost.
Authorities need to ensure that there is sufficient space for both cyclists and pedestrians, that the surface is suitable for cycling and not overgrown; and there are no obstacles in the way. Clear and unambiguous signage will avoid the confusion over whether a pavement can be cycled on or not.
Currently, it seems that the decision on whether these paths are acceptable for shared use is often arbitrary and there are few guidelines in place. In many cases they should be returned to purely pedestrian use and a new cycle lane created on the road.
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