Food delivery cyclists turn Lincoln into 'wild west', councillor claims

Lincolnshire Police said there had only been one complaint about cycling in the city centre

Food delivery cyclists are turning Lincoln's pavements into the "wild west", a county councillor has claimed.

Labour's Julie Killey said some "pedal like fury to get to their destination as soon as possible" and were "seemingly unaware of pedestrians".

Councillor Richard Davies, who is responsible for highways, called on the police to enforce cycling laws.

However, the officer in change of Lincoln city centre said he had so far not been contacted about the issue.

Insp Steven Parker said: "I've only had one complaint come across my desk about cycling in the city centre.

"What I am asking is, if people are saying there is a problem on the High Street then they need to contact us."

Insp Parker added that cycling in pedestrian areas "depends on the signage".

Labour county councillor Julie Killey said food delivery cyclists were turning the city centre into the "wild west".

One pedestrian told the BBC he had experienced a near-miss involving a food delivery cyclist on Steep Hill in Lincoln city centre.

"One came dangerously close and almost ran me over," he said.

Meanwhile, a woman said she had certainly seen people cycling on pavements.

However, she added: "It's all pedestrian areas around here, so they've not really got any choice have they?"

In a statement, food delivery service Just Eat said: "The safety of couriers, road users and the public is very important to us.

"We provide guidance to our independent restaurant partners and self-employed contractors to ensure they follow the rules of the road.

"If we are ever made aware a courier delivering on our behalf has acted in a way that does not uphold the high standards we hope to deliver, we will, of course, take action as appropriate."

Food delivery company Deliveroo said that "road safety is a priority".

"Before riding with Deliveroo, every rider must complete a programme of road safety guidance.

"All riders are required to meet minimum safety standards and, as with all road users, they must follow the Highway Code."