Barrier along cycling route eliminated
In a surprising turn of events, a flower pot was mistakenly installed at a potentially hazardous junction between the Myrtle Beach access path and the cycle path on Glategny Esplanade. The identity of the individual who made the decision, as well as the date, remains undisclosed.
The incident, which occurred on September 15, could have been fatal. A cyclist nearly collided with a large commercial vehicle at the junction where the cycle path meets the road leading towards the Harbour and North Beach car park.
The planter, similar to ones used on the other side of North Beach to discourage cyclists, was positioned at the junction. However, it was later revealed that no decision was made to install a planter at this location, and further consultation with stakeholders is required.
Concerns about the planters' positioning were swiftly raised with multiple authorities, including the States, Traffic and Highways Services, Guernsey Ports, and the Health and Safety Executive. In response, Guernsey Ports apologised for any confusion caused by the installation and confirmed that the planter will not be returning to the junction.
The planter was removed within hours of its placement. However, a second flower box was placed on the gravel surface of the shared pathway, creating a 'dead end' for cyclists heading towards town. This move was met with criticism, with comments on a Facebook post about the matter describing the positioning as "crazy", "an accident waiting to happen", "utterly ridiculous", and "not safe - bonkers".
The Acting Harbour Master has raised concerns about the safety of the junction, and further consideration is being given to making it safer. Measures were also considered to prevent a reoccurrence of such incidents. Some suggestions made to slow cyclists down before joining the road included the installation of speed bumps or traffic calming measures. Others proposed that cyclists should dismount their bikes at the end of the cycle path before continuing on foot.
Despite the initial confusion, it is clear that the safety of all road users is paramount. The incident serves as a reminder for the need for careful planning and consultation when making changes to our public spaces.
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