Editorial: Cyclist ban is over the top

The voice of reason came from Mayor Stuart Crosby this week, following backlash over signs banning cyclists from a scenic path along Bureta's Harbour Drive.

Mr Crosby told councillors there needed to be respect between all path users and reminded them not to "over-regulate things because of a few problems".

The signs were erected by council staff after they received reports pedestrians were being verbally abused by cyclists.

I got a new mountain bike for Christmas and have enjoyed a few quiet pedals along Harbour Drive since. Occasionally I've come across pedestrians and ducked onto the neighbouring grass for a metre or so to get past them safely or called out "excuse me" and "thank-you" as they politely let me pass.

There never seemed to be an issue and we both got the opportunity to enjoy the stunning seaside views up close.

Full credit to Harbour Drive resident Phil Simpson who responded to the no-cycling signs by starting a petition. Within two hours he had 74 signatures in support of his view the signs singled out cyclists.

It made me wonder how many of the wider group of path users council staff spoke to.

It's illegal to ride on city footpaths but this one is wider than most and there is plenty of room for a cyclist to go around a walker safely. It's ridiculous to suggest council needs to spend $45,000 on widening the path to include a cycle lane when a bit of courtesy and common sense could fix the problem.

Council has reserved its decision but I hope they follow Mr Crosby's lead and consider promoting respect between all path users.

It's disappointing the path needs any sign at all but I hope the suggested "share with care" sign would act as a reminder of the rights of all path users to enjoy their journey in peace.