CYCLISTS riding through St Helier’s pedestrianised areas have become “one of the most complained-about things” police have faced in recent months.
PC Alex Guelpa was at West’s Centre on Monday morning as part of Operation Dismount, an initiative encouraging cyclists to respect “please walk your wheels” signs.
“It’s a community-led initiative to tackle cycling in the precinct and the surrounding roads,” he explained.
“This has come about because it is one of the most complained-about things that we have had over the last few months.
“That’s not only directly to [police] headquarters, but when I’ve been speaking to members of the public in the community and businesses that use the roads that surround the precinct, they’re finding a real problem with people cycling far too quickly in a pedestrianised area.”
PC Guelpa said complaints had come from business owners, members of the public and tourists, and warned that cyclists travelling too quickly through busy pedestrian areas risked causing accidents or injuries.
“All we’re asking for is just for people to have a bit of a sensible approach to it – if it’s a really busy road, you wouldn’t drive a car or ride a bike at top speed. It’s exactly the same here,” he said.
“If you can quite clearly see one of our ‘walk your wheels’ signs, please get off, walk your bike, and just have that little extra bit of care.”
Police are focusing on hotspots including West’s Centre, Hilgrove Street, Queen Street and King Street.
PC Guelpa stressed that the operation was not intended to discourage active travel, with officers working alongside the government’s Active Travel team.
“It is a balancing act,” he said. “Ultimately, cycling is a really lovely way to travel.
“Not only is it eco-friendly, but cycling to work has got to be one of the pleasures in a small island versus driving a car. We’re very much taking an education-led approach.”
During the first half-hour of the operation, officers spoke to around a dozen people, with PC Guelpa describing the interactions as “generally very good”.
He said enforcement remained an option for those who repeatedly ignored the rules, but would be used only as a last resort.
“Ultimately, this is an education piece,” he said. “We want people to understand the rules, understand why we’re here.”
