TOWN Path may not originally have been built for cyclists (Postbag, September 18) but neither were Salisbury’s streets originally built for cars. Modes of transport change, and cyclists now make a really important contribution to solving Salisbury’s transport problems. The 2011 census shows that over a thousand people in the Salisbury area cycle to work. In addition, counts show up to 80 rail passengers’ bicycles parking daily at the railway station, and large numbers also use bicycles to get to school, shops and other destinations. If all these people used cars Salisbury’s traffic congestion and air quality problems would be much worse.

Traffic-free routes such as Town Path encourage cycling. The instruction in this shared space for cyclists to ‘give way to pedestrians at all times’ is not a ban on overtaking, which is permissible when there is space and it is safe to do so. It seems that cyclists cannot win. In her letter Ms Kelly objects when cyclists use their bells, but there have also been letters in the Journal requesting cyclists to use bells more often. Bells are not an order for a pedestrian to move aside, they are to make you aware that a cyclist is looking for a safe opportunity to pass. There are unfortunately a minority of cyclists who behave inconsiderately – as do a minority of road users of all categories. Cyclists must be prepared to travel more slowly when sharing space with pedestrians and to dismount when necessary.

However pedestrians, too, need to be aware of those sharing their space. It is a courtesy to allow those who are travelling faster, whether joggers or cyclists, to overtake when there is space to do so. All should respect the needs of others, especially children and those who are older or disabled. Sharing space considerately benefits everyone.

Margaret Willmot

Salisbury City Councillor

Salisbury

In response to Samantha Kelly's letter (Postbag, September 18) I would agree that some cyclists are ignorant and inconsiderate.

However, please do not tar us all with the same brush. Some pedestrians are similarly rude and offensive.

I cycle across the Town Path regularly myself. I will always go slowly and, if I am on the bridges or narrow parts of the path, I will stop to allow pedestrians right of way. I also have third party insurance, follow the rules of the road and do not jump red traffic lights.

I have experienced pedestrians walking three abreast and not moving to one side if faced with a cyclist. I have been sworn at and elbowed before, but these self-righteous people are a minority. I do not have a bell, and have been criticised for not ringing a bell - we cannot win.

One frustration is that drivers and cyclists drive/ride on the left. All pedestrians seem to walk on the right.

Why? I am often forced to 'go continental'.

Such is life - accept that in every aspect of life there are considerate people and there are those who are less so. We all need to show compassion and consideration for other users of our public highways no matter what form of transport we choose.

Tracey Kite

Shrewton