Parks cycling ban in Dudley to be lifted in New Year

A ban on riding bicycles in parks borough in the West Midlands borough of Dudley may soon be ended after nearly four decades as part of the local council’s plans to get people active and give children somewhere safe to ride their bikes.

Currently, a by-law means that cycling is banned in all of the 18 parks and open spaces for which Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council is responsible, reports the Express & Star.

The decision follows a year-long trial in which cycling was permitted at five ‘Healthy Hub’ locations – Huntingtree Park, Mary Stevens Park, Netherton Park and Silver Jubilee Park, plus the Dell Stadium, Pensnett.

A Cyclists’ Code of Conduct was put up at the entrances to the parks in question and fears that permitting cycling would lead to conflict with people on foot proved unfounded with no reported incidents during the trial.

The council’s cabinet member for environment and culture, Councillor Tracy Wood, commented: “The promotion of cycling in parks and council managed public open spaces will increase the opportunity for cycling for all residents and in particular provide better opportunities for young people to learn to cycle in a safe environment.”

She also said that the decision to lift the ban, due to be approved on 3 January, would allow the council to make greater provision for cycling away from roads.