Making towpaths safer from cyclists

Published: Thursday, 01 October 2009

FREE bells were given to cyclists by the Eccleshill Neighbourhood Police Team and Bradford Council at Dobson Lock on the Leeds & Liverpool on Wednesday (30th September) to attempt to cut down on accidents between cyclist and pedestrians using the towpath.

The agencies, who are working in partnership with British Waterways, had 50 bells on hand to fit free of charge to cyclists who attend on the Day of Action which started from 9am at the lock at Apperley Bridge.

Police and partners are organised the event as part of a Day of Action on the canal towpath to improve safety for walkers and cyclists.

To further the safety aspect between walkers and cyclists,  PCSOs and waterways safety officers will conduct extra patrols from Apperley Bridge  towards Shipley and Leeds.

Authorities are taking action following complaints. It is hoped that by providing cyclists with free bells, riders will be encouraged to use them when going round corners or approaching pedestrians to warn them of their presence.

 

The police were also keen to step up patrols following some recent reports of sporadic crime on the towpath.