Policy Briefing 9: Pavement Cycling

Policy Briefing 9: Pavement Cycling PDF (133Kb)

Pavement cycling is illegal. It causes fear, anxiety and insecurity, especially for more vulnerable walkers. Pedestrians need to feel safe and secure on pavements, and we need to keep them clear for the exclusive use of people on foot.

But the danger cyclists face on Britain's roads is starkly revealed by the annual toll of cyclist deaths and injuries. And too often this is at least partly why a minority resort to pavement cycling.

The anxiety that pavement cycling creates can deter people from using public space. Even if someone is not actually hit by a pavement cyclist, the surprise and shock of a silent approach, or fear of injury, can be sufficient to put people off walking entirely.

Pedestrians are at real risk from cyclists who ride on pavements. Statistics do not tell the whole story, as many collisions go unreported. But in 1999, 79 cyclists hit and injured pedestrians on pavements (House of Commons Parliamentary reply 25/7/2000) - there is little doubt the true figure is much higher. And pavement cycling can kill. In December 1999, a 35 year old man died from injuries received when he was knocked down by a pavement cyclist in Southport.

Please download the attached pdf file for the full policy briefing.