Cycle speed on Thames Path to be reduced for safety

The Thames Path is a long distance walking trail, following the river for 185 miles (about 300km), with sections open to cyclists

Some cycling speeds along the Thames Path in south-west London are being reduced following safety concerns.

Pedestrians had reported feeling unsafe due to speeding cyclists along the path between Wandsworth Bridge and Battersea Park, Wandsworth Council said.

It said works in the area to install planter boxes and rumble strips would improve the safety of the path, while making it "more attractive".

The council said the pathway was a "key transport link" for pedestrians and cyclists and a "popular leisure destination".

Labour councillor Jenny Yates on the Thames Path next to existing planter box arrangements designed to slow bicycle speeds

The works include additional signage and larger paving slabs to signal that pedestrians have priority.

Extra measures will also be added to help people navigate blind corners.

The council said it was making the changes after listening to concerns from residents as well as the Sight Loss Council, which campaigns for change for blind and partially-sighted people.

A petition by Conservative councillor Caroline de La Soujeole also urged the council to introduce measures to ensure "safe and considerate cycling" on the path.

E-bike hire companies have already introduced a go-slow zone to limit speeds on the path, while e-bikes cannot be parked on the busy stretch.

'Too fast'

Labour councillor Jenny Yates, cabinet member for transport, said: “We’ve been listening to residents who are concerned cyclists are going too fast on this stretch of the Thames Pathway, so we’re doing something about it.

"People in Wandsworth should be able to enjoy safely the fantastic spaces and transport links we have on offer, especially those by the Thames."

The councillor added: “As a council, we love working with our community to make Wandsworth a better place and these safety improvements, which are community driven, are a great example of this."