A new campaign calling on Sedgemoor District Council to axe the “unnecessary” ban on cycling along Burnham-On-Sea’s seafront has been launched this week.
Cycling enthusiast Andy Brewer, who is a member of Sedgemoor Cycling Group, has urged the council to axe the bye-law which currently makes cycling illegal along the pavement between Burnham Yacht Club and the town’s jetty.
Andy, pictured, says the bye-law is “unenforceable” and poses a danger to cyclists, since they are forced to ride along the road.
His campaign has already received the support of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, which is backing the need for a re-think.
Andy told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Currently, all cyclists have to leave the pavement at the Yacht Club and use the Esplanade, which at this time of the year is dangerous.”
“The pavement is wide enough to be shared between pedestrians and cyclists with two dedicated lanes, just as we have in place along the River Brue cycle route.”
He added: “The cycling bye-law that is currently in place makes riding a bike illegal, yet in reality local police say it is very difficult to enforce.”
“There’s a lot of support for the change within Sedgemoor Cycling Group, and I also have the backing of most town councillors. I am optimistic that we can get this unnecessary bye-law lifted.”
The Town Council has written to the County Council’s cycling officer, David Mitchell, about the proposals and is also following up the matter with Sedgemoor District Council, which oversees the bye-law. Andy’s campaign is also supported by Burnham-On-Sea.com.
