Mayals Road Cycle Way Letter

Dear Mr Roberts,

As a Member of the Senedd I have received representations from residents in the Mayals area concerning the proposed cycle way along Mayals Road. You will no doubt have received similar representations from others. Residents are concerned with regards to a number of safety and environmental aspects associated with the initial plans. Environmentally, there are significant concerns around the removal of 10 mature trees locally, which is perceived as an act of environmental negligence. Moreover there are concerns that the construction of the hybrid lanes may cause root damage to many more trees, possibly impacting on the character of this area for many years. In terms of safety, residents have told me that they are concerned with regards to the proposed width of the hybrid cycleway – only 1.5m in width as opposed to the recommended 2m width. There are also concerns with regards to the potential danger of the 25mm upstand between the cycleway and walkway which could be lethal whilst riding at high speeds on the downward rote. I am also aware that local cycling body ‘Wheelrights’ have raised concerns with regards to the safety of the scheme and local residents feel that the Council would be failing in its duty if it were to construct a scheme which has been deemed inherently unsafe by such a representative cycling body. There is general support for the development of cycleways in Swansea, however, I would ask that the Council consults widely with local residents, schools, cycling bodies, businesses and other stakeholders before any scheme is implemented in Mayals in order to ensure that the scheme is safe, and environmentally sensitive. I would value your guidance and look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely,

Dr David R Lloyd