THERE are calls for cyclists in the UK to be registered, insured and fined if they break the law by running a red light or speeding, but the Island’s Economic Development Minister said this was not ‘necessary’ in Jersey.
Deputy Kirsten Morel made the comments after UK transport secretary Grant Shapps questioned whether numberplates and insurance were needed to help police track cyclists.
Deputy Morel said: ‘It used to be the case that bicycles were registered in Jersey but this ended sometime before I was born in the 70s.
He added: ‘I don’t know of any plans to introduce similar regulations and requirements in Jersey and personally I don’t think it is a necessary step at the moment.’
Move More Jersey head Cirsty de Gruchy said the Island was seeing an increase in the number of people cycling on the roads and cycle paths ‘due to the legacy of the pandemic, the cost of living and a desire to be more active’.
She added: ‘But I think there is both positivity and also anger about cyclists sharing the roads. I think what we need now is understanding and respect from all road users.’
She said that there had been a growing demand for bikes in Jersey and that 60% of adults who responded to a recent active-transport survey said they would like to cycle more.
‘The main reason people give for not cycling is they don’t feel confident cycling on the roads, they don’t know where the bike routes are or there are not enough bike parking spaces, ‘ she said.
‘Government has started to make great improvements in the infrastructure, but now we need more investment and bold leadership from the government to make things happen. I think electric bikes are a game-changer, especially for people who live up a hill or further away from where they work.
‘Travelling by electric bike gives you more freedom, time and saves you money on fuel and parking. It pays for itself very quickly.’
Sections of the cycle path along St Aubin’s Bay have been widened to make the route safer and encourage more people to cycle, with the government recently announcing the completion of works, which also include new markings and signage.
Ms de Gruchy said: ‘There is limited space on the roads, particularly in parts of Jersey, but cyclists have as much right to be on the road as motorists,’ she added.
‘But for me it’s all about respect. We’re on the right track but there is an element of a critical mass now. We need more people to build their confidence cycling by teaching adults as well as children how to use the roads safely.’
All Jersey schools teach pupils cycling proficiency before they reach secondary level to build their confidence and ensure they know the Highway Code.
Six-to-eight-week courses are also available for adult learners, using a network of trained, experienced cyclists, to guide adults on the roads and make them more confident cyclists.
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