Rethink necessary over Mudeford cycle path (From Bournemouth Echo)

Rethink necessary over Mudeford cycle path

5:20pm Thursday 4th March 2010 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(5)

TEETHING problems at a new cycleway in Mudeford to improve facilities for Olympic training teams and local clubs have prompted Christchurch council to tweak the track.

The track is thought to be too low, resulting in large obstructive pebbles littering the concrete section, making it dangerous to use.

Resident Terry Atkinson said: “It is not possible to ride along – if you fall off as I did, you will quickly realise how close the railings are. And once the algae get on it, it will be very slippery.

“I believe a rethink is necessary. Cyclists do deserve more respect.”

The work has been completed by the council in a bid to attract more world-class sailing events to the town, since Christchurch was designated as one of the pre-Olympic training campsites.

Steve Woolard, coastal engineering team leader at Christchurch council, said: “Since we planned this project the beach levels next to the extended terracing have risen by more than a metre, which means when there is a particularly high tide, sand and pebbles can get thrown over the concrete terrace.

“We will be alleviating this problem shortly by installing mesh panelling up to the height of the first cross rail along the seaward side of the railings for approximately 75 metres from the Mudeford Quay end.

“Work will be carried out by the council’s coastal maintenance gang and access along the terracing will not be affected.”