A new power to clamp down on cycling in Bedford town centre’s pedestrianised zone has been welcomed by Conservative Cllr Roger Rigby.
Bedford Borough Council has agreed to implement a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) which will allow Police Constables, Police Community Support Officers and Council enforcement staff to issue Fixed Penalty Notices to those caught cycling in the pedestrianised zone from 9am – 6pm.
The PSPO will replace the current Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) which allows only Police Constables to issue fines.
Cllr Rigby has been a long-time advocate of tackling reckless cycling in the town centre. He said:
‘This is a long overdue measure. Sadly, there will always be a minority of cyclists with no regard for the safety of pedestrians. As a former town centre business owner I saw so many times how some cyclists are a danger to pedestrians by riding at speed and dangerously.
‘The 9am – 6pm ban makes the town centre much safer for the elderly, disabled and families. I welcome this new power.’