Cyclepath concerns

CONCERNS that walkers are in danger from cyclists on the shared seafront cycle path could lead to changes to make it safer.

At the town council meeting on Monday one resident complained to visiting county council leader Cllr John Hart that a 'once enjoyable walk had become dangerous'.

Although the shared cyclepath along the length of the Esplanade and Queens Drive meets minimum national safety standards Cllr Hart said he would look into the concerns.

He said: "The issue of cycle path is being looked at again.

"But if we do widen it there will be a probably be a loss of parking (on the seafront).

"When cyclists and pedestrians share the same path there are always some problems.

"(But)...it is not a dead issue."

Town mayor Darryl Nicholas said: "At town council we raised numerous concerns before, during and after the construction of the path in this location.

"Even if it does just conform to safety guidelines, the fact remains that it is very tight, it swerves around benches and parking meters and goes directly through a highly pedestrianised area.

"Clearly we want to encourage cycling in Exmouth, but another look needs to be taken at this one path in particular.

"We are encouraged that DCC is reviewing it again and hope that a better solution can be found that is safer and more enjoyable for both pedestrians and cyclists."

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