Police have called for calm amid rising tensions between cyclists and walkers on two popular Fife routes during lockdown.
Officers have told both sides to “show each other respect” as tempers flare on shared use paths along the Forth Road Bridge and the Fife Coastal Route.
Pedallers have been told to stick to the Forth crossing’s 15mph limit and to the cycle lanes; while walkers have been urged to “be aware” of their surroundings and keep dogs on short leashes.
It comes amid rising numbers of cyclists across Scotland during the lockdown.
A post from South West Fife Police reads: “We have received concerns regarding the volume of cyclists using the Forth Road Bridge and Fife Coastal Path.
“Pedestrians and cyclists, please show each other respect and give way to each other.
“Pedestrians, please walk in the designated lane on the bridge.
“Cyclists, please slow down and give way to pedestrians when passing hazards on the bridge, adhere to the 15mph speed limit and ride within the bike lane.
“Please keep your speed down when descending the path towards Ferry Toll and be aware of pedestrians and other hazards.
“Pedestrians, please be aware of your surroundings, especially when wearing earphones, and keep dogs on a short leash.
“Above all, please be nice to each other and enjoy your exercise.”
Shared Use Paths
(1/3) We have received concerns regarding the volume of cyclists using the #ForthRoadBridge and #FifeCoastalPath. Pedestrians and cyclists, please show each other respect and give way to each other. Pedestrians, please walk in the designated lane on the bridge… pic.twitter.com/REgIO8XJWT— South West Fife Police (@SWFifePolice) June 16, 2020
The force’s post about the issue sparked a number of comments on social media from both sides of the debate.
Please follow this advice if you are using the #ForthRoadBridge by bike or foot👇 https://t.co/sk3fcCaKiY
— Traffic Scotland (@trafficscotland) June 16, 2020
It’s not always possible to maintain a suitable distance when passing other pedestrians without venturing into the cycle lane unfortunately. It would be a huge help if both sides of the bridge were open to cyclists and pedestrians.
— Natalie Gardiner (@NatalieGardin16) June 16, 2020
Never have a problem with the walkers on my bike, just the ones with earphones in seem to zone out completely, so they don’t hear you coming, ringing bell or shouting hello 😂
— Barrie Kent (@BarrieKent) June 16, 2020
The Fife Coastal Path is a major pathway which covers 113 miles of the kingdom’s fringes from Kincardine to Newburgh.
