The excellent work by Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, in removing barriers on cycle routes throughout the UK continues.
Barriers can seriously hinder and stop use of cycle routes by a great many people.
Regretably Whitchurch has some which have been brought to the attention of the Town Council.
These barriers have led to several instances of the less mobile not being able to access the Council's Mill Springs open space.
Sustrans this month issued the following statement:
"Removing barriers will lead to an increase of illegal use and antisocial behaviour."This is one of the most common concerns we get when removing restrictive barriers on the National Cycle Network. But did you know removing barriers can actually do the opposite?In our experience barriers often stop people with wheelchairs, adapted cycles, prams and trailers from using the path, but don't actually prevent those with motorbikes from illegally accessing the path. People with motorbikes can often wheel them under, around or lift them over barriers, or if they're really determined simply find an access point further up the path.Removing barriers enables more people to use routes, making them busier, which can in turn make illegal use and antisocial behaviour less likely. In a trial in London, barrier removal led to a 20% increase in use and a reduction in anti-social behaviour.This creates a positive feedback loop: people are more likely to use safe paths, so as a route gains a reputation for being safe, the number of people using the route goes up, making illegal use and antisocial behaviour less likely. It's a win-win.Removing barriers is a key priority for us as we work to make the National Cycle Network more accessible.