Reminder to "share this space"
A reminder to “Share this Space” has been issued to everyone using Devon’s roads and paths this summer.
With roads and walking and cycling routes getting busier again as more people return to work and more visitors travel to Devon, the County Council is urging everyone to take extra care in Devon.
As well as sharing space, the authority is also calling on everyone to share the campaign messages. It’s promoting a "toolkit" on its dedicated Share this Space webpages which includes films, animations and graphics that can be posted on social media.
The advice for road users and shared-path users includes:
- Cyclists are asked to please pass walkers slowly and carefully, letting people know you’re there and giving them space;
- Dog walkers on shared paths are asked to keep dogs under close control on a short lead;
- Pedestrians are asked to check for traffic if they are stepping into the road to maintain a social distance;
- Drivers and motorcyclists are asked to be considerate and to give vulnerable road users such as cyclists and horse-riders extra space (two metres if possible) when passing them. Also be aware of the possibility of pedestrians stepping into the road for social distancing;
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “Many of us have changed our travel habits because of the pandemic lockdown, whether it's using the car less if you're able to work from home, or walking and cycling more for exercise or your commute. For some of us, those changes may continue, but with more people now out and about we want to make sure Devon’s roads and shared paths are a pleasant environment for everyone. We can all play our part to be courteous and considerate, and we're encouraging everyone to be alert, be patient and be nice! Hopefully, giving each other that little bit more time and extra space can help to reduce potential conflict or collisions.”
For more information go to https://www.traveldevon.info/cycle/safe-cycling/share-this-space/
