Crackdown on Chelmsford town centre cyclists

10:15am Thursday 24th July 2008

POLICE are putting the brakes on cyclists who pedal through Chelmsford's High Street.

In a crackdown on bikers who flout the law by cycling through the pedestrianised areas of the county town £30 fixed penalty notices will be issued on the spot.

It comes in response to concerns raised by the Neighbourhood Action Panel (NAP) for the area.

Michael Wray, town centre marketing manager with Chelmsford Council, said: "We positively support the police in what they are trying to do.

"At the NAP this matter was raised by both the public and councillors from both the borough and county council.

"It is an area of public concern and involves public safety. "

Police officers will focus on the High Street and the pedestrianised areas of Springfield Road and Baddow Road during the summer holidays - starting the crackdown on Monday August 4.

Police inspector for the town centre area Jo Byrne said: "It is an issue of safety for the pedestrians and one of common sense.

"It isn't targeted at young people particularly as those who ride through the High Street and on pavements can be any age. But the summer holidays are a time when more people are out and about shopping and the area is busier and their safety is our concern."

Last year an idea to allow cycling through the pedestrianised area of the town was rejected.