With warmer weather – hopefully – approaching, many walkers and cyclists will be preparing to get out and enjoy County Durham’s stunning scenery.

The county boasts hundreds of miles of paths that pass through beautiful countryside and scenic coastal landscapes.

As many of these paths are shared by walkers and cyclists, Durham County Council has prepared some tips to help both groups enjoy these shared spaces safely.

Cyclists are advised to:

  • Give way to pedestrians
  • Keep to the left and allow walkers to pass
  • Slow down when overtaking
  • Avoid very high speeds on shared paths
  • Be especially careful around children, horses and dogs

Walkers are encouraged to:

  • Keep to the left, stay alert and pay extra attention around bends and inclines
  • Keep dogs on a short lead and under control
  • Stick to paths
  • Leave sufficient space for joggers and cyclists to overtake

Durham County Council’s strategic traffic manager, Dave Wafer, said, “County Durham is full of fantastic routes for cycling and walking.”

“We are also hosting two major cycling events this summer, with the Tour series having raced into Durham City this month and the Velo closed road race set to take place in September, which I’m sure will inspire people to get on their bike.”

“But, whilst we want more people to enjoy all the great benefits of cycling and walking, from getting in shape to saving money, we also want to ensure that they are safe, enjoyable modes of transport for everyone.”

“Walkers, wheelchair users and cyclists are all encouraged to use our shared routes, and horse riders are also welcome on our railway paths, so people need to take extra care when there are other users around and be aware of their needs.”

“In particular, it is important that cyclists slow down and alert walkers when they are approaching, and to give them plenty of space when overtaking.”

More details about cycling clubs and routes – and advice about staying safe on your bike – can be accessed at https://www.durham.gov.uk/cycling.

For more information about walking routes in County Durham – including maps of its network of countryside railway paths – please visit https://www.durham.gov.uk/countryside.


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DavidSunderland
David writes about local news, thought provoking stories, and yearns to capture the community spirit with a unique writing style.

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