Grids could be a hazard

Proposals for two cattle grids at the southern tip of the Malvern Hills have been discussed at a public inquiry over the past week, continuing for a day or two yet.

Grids can be a real hazard to cyclists, particularly if on a slope, badly installed or maintained, or if it is wet, and for less experienced cyclists. I’ve seen more than one accident, but I don’t think all cattle grids are evil. In this case they are proposed for a road running south from Whiteleaved Oak, near Chase End Hill, to allow cattle to be kept on surrounding common land as part of the Hills management. It also happens to be right on the join of the three counties (Worcs, Herefordshire, Glos).

From the details I have, this road is one rarely used by cyclists as there is a much flatter alternative that I know well and enjoy using. A local CTC rep has been involved in the inquiry, though, so there may be more to this case than is immediately apparent. Certainly other fairly recent suggestions for cattle grids around Castlemorton Common would discourage some people from using it as a quiet place to cycle. I’ll try to keep a tab on developments

Malvern Gazette news item, 23/11/07

Sustainable Transport - small steps

From CTC site:

CTC, the national cyclists’ organisation, today cautiously welcomed the Government’s response to the Stern Review and Eddington report.

Campaigns and Policy Manager Roger Geffen said “It’s great to see Government recognising that cycling can help tackle the twin crises of obesity and climate change. But what’s needed is action now, not the promise of a White Paper in the future.”

“Last week’s Foresight report made clear that poor transport choices lead straight to obesity, and last year’s Eddington report showed that ‘smarter choices’ – including cycle training – are one of the most cost-effective ways to encourage people out of their cars and onto sustainable transport. We hope the Government takes these findings into account when resolving the forthcoming funding settlement for cycling.”

Department for Transport information.