Torridge District Council votes to overturn cycle ban in Bideford Park

Torridge District Council's Community and Resources Committee has agreed that cyclists will now be able to cycle through Victoria Park in Bideford, in a bid to promote physical activity with a safer off-road route through the town. 

During park opening times, Cyclists will be able to use existing pathways, allowing for a new recreational route, linking Bideford to Northam and Westward Ho! Additional signage and information will now be developed for park users to follow. 

The identified park route should be for leisurely cycling only, with experienced cyclists and commuters encouraged to continue to cycle through Bank End car park and Riverbank House offices where long term improvements are also being considered.

Councillor Lyndon Piper, Lead Member for Leisure, Torridge District Council commented:

"Encouraging people to use bikes instead of cars when Bideford does not have enough car parking space is a good thing.  The existing paths in the park are wide and it is a great space for young people to learn and develop their cycling skills in a safe environment without the worry of mixing with motor vehicles.  Cycling has many health and wellbeing benefits and this is a fantastic opportunity to promote this by creating a clear and accessible cycle/walk route within Victoria Park,  as many other parks currently do throughout the world."

Oct 25