With the summer holiday season in full swing and the city welcomes thousands of visitors, a new campaign is launched to help keep pedestrians and cyclists safe.
The Share the space, drop your pace campaign aims to raise awareness, particularly in areas of the city where cyclists and pedestrians share the same space, encouraging everyone to be more aware of what’s around them.
Brighton & Hove City Council, environment councillor Gill Mitchell explained: “Walking and cycling are both great ways get around the city.
“However, during the summer, when the city gets busier, the chances of collision and risk of injury to pedestrians and cyclists increases. As a result, we’re asking everyone to be more aware of what’s around them and encouraging cyclists to use their bells.”
On Friday, August 17 staff from the council’s Road Safety Team will be out on the seafront, east of the Palace Pier, handing out travel information and fitting bike bells for cyclists. Sussex Police officers will also be advising cyclists to keep to the cycle tracks at all times.
Road safety officer Keith Baldock said: “In many areas of the city, pedestrians and cyclists share the same space and in others, segregated cycle tracks run alongside a footway, allowing cyclists to travel away from roads.
“Fortunately, collisions are rare, but vulnerable pedestrians with hidden disabilities can be scared by cyclists riding fast near to them. Similarly cyclists have been hurt by dogs on leads and walkers wandering onto the cycle track.
“We want to remind everyone that clearly marked, cycle tracks are intended for cyclists only. Where pedestrian crossings are on the road there are often breaks in the cycle track, with give way markings, to allow pedestrians to cross the cycle track.
“Being considerate to others makes life much more friendly for everyone.”
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