The Thames Path in Bishop’s Park
Hammersmith & Fulham Council is urging cyclists not to ride on the Thames Path in Bishop’s Park following increasing complaints of near-misses with pedestrians.
This comes as part of an effort to make cycling in the borough safer for everyone, whether they travel on two wheels or by foot.
The majority of paths through the park are dual-use, pedestrian and cyclist with pedestrian priority, with the exception of the Thames Path. Cyclists are being asked to ensure they take the designated routes, one of which runs parallel to the Thames Path.
“We are determined to provide cycling routes through the borough which are safe, easy to use and importantly, reduce the risk of conflict with pedestrians and other road users,” said Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Residents’ Services.
“Some riders might not be aware there are designated cycle routes through Bishop’s Park, so we would urge all cyclists to be responsible and ensure they’re on the correct routes, which are indicated by circular signs embedded in the path. Our Parks Police actively enforce against riding in no-cycle zones and will stop any cyclists whose actions might put other residents at risk.”
Parks Police
The Parks Police run regular safe cycling operations in Bishop’s Park, as well as Furnivall Gardens, where pedestrians and cyclists also often come into conflict. During these sessions the officers offer free bike-marking. They also visit local schools to offer safe-cycling advice and address other parks issues. To find out more, email parkspolice@lbhf.gov.uk.
This month, Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s Cabinet approved its Cycling Strategy 2015 [link], which lays out the council’s plans to improve opportunities for cycling safely throughout the borough, for riders of all ages and abilities.
A key aim of the strategy is to reduce conflicts between cyclists and pedestrians and other road users by providing safe, easily accessible cycle routes across H&F.
