Cycling accidents on Widcombe Hill

Update - April 2009 - Cycling speeds on Widcombe Hill

There have been concerns raised by local residents about cyclists travelling down Widcombe Hill at excessive speeds of up to 40 mph.

Cyclists are reminded to take great care on this hill, especially on the approach to the bend at Macauley Buildings where, in the past, a number of cyclists travelling at speed down the hill have lost control, putting themselves, pedestrians and car drivers at risk.

The police are monitoring the situation and considering greater enforcement of the speed limits in this area.

2008

Recently there have been a number of cycle incidents on Widcombe Hill about halfway down on the bend at Macauley Buildings, where cyclists travelling at speed down the hill have lost control.

Following a recent site inspection it has been decided to renew the road surface on the bend and to erect extra signs warning of the bend.

However, cyclists should take great care on this hill and avoid excessive speed especially on the approach to this bend. They should also be aware that the bend is more difficult to negotiate when the road surface is wet. Cyclists should moderate their speed accordingly.

Bendybus - driving attitudes towards cyclists

The University has been made aware of some recent incidents of Bendybuses being driven without due consideration towards cyclists. The nature of the reported incidents is being taken very seriously and the University has undertaken to write to First Bus expressing concern.

The reports received include occasions of bus drivers verbally abusing cyclists, buses cutting in front of cyclists and forcing them onto the pavement, and buses not allowing sufficient space for cyclists to proceed in safety.

If you would like to express a point of view, please contact the Secretary of the Transport Strategy Consultative Working Group or a member of BUBUG.