Police to crack down on cyclists using Wiltshire footpath with fines

Officers have recently received reports of people using The Brittox in Devizes as a cycle route and will now be cracking down on the offence by increasing patrols in the area.

Riding bikes on the footpath is prohibited and anybody caught breaching this law could be issued a £50 fine.

Officers will be keeping an eye out for offenders but urged residents to report any wrongdoing.

PCSO Debbie Lowe said: "We are aware of reports of people using the Brittox footpath as a cycle route.

"We have been working with Devizes Town Council, who have put up signage to educate people about the rules.

“We have also been working with Devizes School to give parents and students some guidance.

"Officers will be patrolling the area regularly but if you have any concerns please contact us on 101 or online.”

Cycling on footpaths and pavements has been a contentious issue in Devizes and Wiltshire as a whole.

No cycling signs in The Brittox, Devizes (Image: Wiltshire Police)

Earlier this month, signs were installed in The Brittox reminding locals that cycling is not permitted.

Last September, town councillors resolved to send a request to both the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable asking for better enforcement of existing cycling laws.

This came after residents requested no cycling signage on Estcourt Street and London Road.

Many reacted positively to the news police would be clamping down on cyclists using their bikes on pedestrian routes.

One person said: “They may not be serious to some but as someone with mobility issues and hardly any hearing they are a concern to me and are a danger.

“For those that don’t think it’s an issue, how would you feel if your mother or father or child fell or got knocked over and broke something?

“They are a nuisance and as it is supposed to be pedestrians only, we should all be safe.”

Another added: “It's all about educating the public.

“About time the general public followed a few rules.”

Rule 64 of the Highway Code states that cyclists must not cycle on pavements.

Rule 63 of the code adds that when sharing spaces with pedestrians, bike riders should take care when passing pedestrians and horse riders, especially children, older adults, or disabled people.

Riders are urged to slow down and make their presence known by ringing their bell.