Following our discussion at
the last Dover District Cycle Forum, Charlie Elphicke MP has responded to Steve
Fawke's letter by taking up the case (see letter attached).
He agrees about the dangers
of signs that direct cyclists to ride along the A2, which is almost a motorway -
and supports action to signpost alternative routes on quieter roads or off-road,
especially for foreign cycle-tourists arriving at Dover Docks.
(2) TOLLS FOR CYCLISTS AT
SANDWICH BAY?
You will be relieved to hear
that threats of a £1 toll for cyclists using NCR1 to go between Sandwich and
Deal have been narrowly averted.
This is a private road
belonging to the residents of Sandwich Bay estate. Like many of our cros-country
cycle routes, it is permissive only - 17 years ago Sustrans
negotiated a voluntary agreement with the landowners for cyclists to use their
road free where non-resident car drivers have to pay £7 a time
to pass the gate.
One member of the Spokes
committee described it like this:
"Antagonism is generated
between drivers, who live on the estate, and groups of cyclists who do not wish
to give way to each other and cyclists on a "high" being kept waiting at the
barrier. In both situations cyclists have given way to verbal
abuse."
Following complaints from
residents and toll-gate keepers, a move to impose a toll on cyclists was averted
for the time being, as this would inconvenience many ordinary cyclists and
familes who ride along the road without trouble. The alternative of riding along
the main road is obviously not attractive.
Please spread the word and
do all you can to encourage others to ride courteously (especially when in large
groups) so we don't lose this route,
Ian
Ian Killbery earlystart@me.com
Chair, Dover District Cycle Forum
representing everyone interested in cycling in Dover District
affiliated to SPOKES East Kent Cycle Campaign http://www.spokeseastkent.org.uk
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