Andy D'Agorne

Despite early suggestions that York was not likely to be eligible because it already has relatively high levels (for the UK) of cycling, we have been shortlisted to get government funding in the second wave of 'Cycling Demonstration Towns'. A presentation and grilling later in the month by DfT officials will determine whether or not we are successful in attracting more funding to make that step change in cycling provision that could see the city becoming more cycle friendly and safer for cyclists.

Sadly last Thursday, a 17 year old student Ruby Milnes was killed as she cycled along the Sustrans 65 route at the point where it crosses an access route to the racecourse. Any witnesses are urged to contact the police: http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/yorknews/display.var.2262009.0.cyclist_death_witness_plea.php She was killed in the collision with a lorry delivering temporary toilets to the site for the race meeting this week. I passed the spot on my way home later in the evening and thought it a bit unusual for there to be a police car there but assumed it had been escorting the large load.

This highlights how accidents can happen in the most unexpected situations,plus the importance of separating vulnerable road users and raising driver awareness of cyclists. Ironically one contributory factor may have been that the racecourse have in the past year kept the gates closed for much of the time, so that cyclists have come to expect the road to be unused by vehicle traffic except on racedays.

 Letter Ive sent to The Press (published 14/5/08)

Dear Sir,

The review of the footstreets policy is timely, as York is shortlisted for national cycle demonstration town status. In order to win through, we need to demonstrate that York has other policies that are effectively moving us towards more sustainable transport in which cycling as well as walking can be a major contributor.   Cycling down Gillygate or the dual carriageway section of Tower St/ Fishergate is an unpleasant and dangerous experience, particularly during the daytime. We do need to tackle this problem, but providing a clearly designated cross city cycle route that operates 24/7 through the city centre would be safer for all concerned and more attractive to many not currently using cycles. Allowing for clearly signed two way cycle traffic on a spine network including Parliament St - Daveygate - Blake St, with a connection to Goodramgate could cater for most cross city movements. This would mean that there would be less reason for cyclists to want to use Coney St, which is congested with delivery vehicles or people for much of the day.   In the light of the recent tragic cycle accident near the racecourse, anything that helps keep cycles and lorries apart has to be a good thing. Cycling is good for fitness and the environment. The recent removal of the ban on cycling in the centre of Cambridge shows that opening up certain footstreets to cycles can be made to work safely with consideration and careful design.Extend the footstreets, cut the speed limit to 10mph or 20mph but dont disadvantage cycles that are part of the solution when used responsibly.