PERSONAL VIEW: Cycle lane policy 'behind the times'

Worthing's promenade cycle lane originally opened in 1994, but was closed just one year later after a pedestrian received head injuries following a collision with a cyclist.

Following that incident, subsequent councils have been reluctant to reinstate the path, which was also heavily criticised for being impractical and poorly designed.

However, we don't have to travel far to see successful seafront cycle paths functioning well with both pedestrians and cyclists able to travel safely through urban areas.

John Coote, who is leading Worthing's branch of Sustrans, said: "There are many promenade cycle routes in the country, including busy Brighton, and they work well without incident."

The charity has battled for years for the Worthing seafront route to be reopened with a safer design, separating cyclists from pedestrians.

Worthing Sustrans volunteers hope that, with local support and even the backing of central government, plans for an improved seafront cycle route could finally come to fruition.

The Department for Transport has set out a range of financial and planning objectives to make it easier for us to leave our cars at home for shorter journeys.

From increasing cycle parking at railway stations, to rewarding companies who supplement the costs of their employees' bikes, it is clear that two wheels are the way forward in their eyes.

Across the country, local authorities have responded by investing in safe cycle paths and even subsidising cycling proficiency training for children.

Yet here in Worthing we appear to be behind the times.

It seems incredible that it is possible to cycle on designated seafront routes all the way from Dover to the West Country '“ except in Worthing.

Cyclists must either get off their bikes on the seafront, or go along Marine Parade, shoulder to shoulder with all the traffic on the road.

In a town which thrives on seafront tourism, it is a pity cyclists visiting Worthing are forced to get off their bikes or risk serious accident using the busy seafront road.

And if they do stray onto the path, they risk an on the spot 30 fine for mistakenly assuming that what's allowed elsewhere in the country would also apply here.

What's needed is a realistic alternative to using our cars, so it's time for Worthing to look at the collaborative successes of Sustrans and other councils and seriously consider reopening the cycle route.

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