RE: Cycling on the pavement in Swindon.

I recently had the need to write to Wiltshire Constabulary in respect of the above matter. I set out below the email communication concerned which is dated January 15, 2011. I am sure that you will find the contents to be self explanatory.

“I visit Swindon from Bath at least twice a month in order to visit a friend who lives in Salisbury Street, only a relatively short distance from the railway station.

I have been making this journey for several years.

On every occasion during the last 12 months I have encountered at least two/three cyclists riding on the pavement without any regard for the safety of pedestrians.

This situation is particularly prevalent in Station Road where there has not been one occasion when I have not encountered a cyclist riding furiously in the direction of Corporation Street.

When asked if they realise that they are both endangering the safety of pedestrians as well as breaking the law they are extremely abusive and threatening and clearly have no intention of riding lawfully.

This always results in myself having to take avoiding action by walking into the road.

I understand from the person whom I am visiting that the police in Swindon ignore the problem advising that it does not exist.

From my own personal experience the situation is clear for all to see.

I am aware that Bath had a similar problem but due to the concerted efforts of the police this has now been resolved.

Please advise whether it is the intention of Wiltshire Police to return the state of the pavements in Swindon town centre to a condition where pedestrians both are and feel safe?

The alternative is to conclude that it is not the intention to enforce the law.”

Earlier today I received a reply from PCSO 6100 Stuart Bird of the Broadgreen Neighbourhood Police Team the substantive contents of which are a marked deviance from the reality of the situation. I set this out below.

“We believe the situation to have improved due to not observing as many cyclists on the footpath, not handing out as many picture card leaflets and not receiving any recent complaints locally from residents regarding the problem.”

I have to wonder whether this should be construed as Wiltshire Constabulary being reluctant for reasons only, or at best, known to themselves to enforce the Criminal Code in respect of this offence notwithstanding the evident danger to which law abiding pedestrians are put.

As the result I for one shall certainly think twice before coming to Swindon and spending my hard earnt money in your local economy.

I am wondering what the experience of your local pedestrians is.

I C RIDINGS

James Street West

Bath