I'd agree that we need to be as positive as possible. On the other hand, doing
that is difficult because there must be worries. Some thoughts:

* The proposed pavement path recognises that, in practice, many cyclists seem to
choose to use that as a place to ride even now, when it is illegal. The proposal
will meet that clear demand.

However:

* Cycle accidents mostly happen at junctions. Cycle paths often make the risk
worse, by moving cyclists nearer to hedges and fences, thus reducing sight lines
between cyclists and emerging motorists. They also put cyclists "out of sight,
out of mind" for motorists turning off the main road. It seems, therefore, that
the proposals will increase the chances of collisions at the health centre car
park, Elmside Walk, Christchurch car park and Grammar School Walk, and reduce
safety overall.

* As a confident cyclist, I am relatively happy on the road at present. A
narrower road will be more difficult for cyclists who choose to use it, as
motorists will try to squeeze past. Thus, the risks for on-road cyclists will
also be increased, whereas at present Bedford Road is easily the best of the
three sides of the one-way system.

* At the same time, a path may create conflict with drivers who expect cyclists
to use it, and resent their presence on the road.

* The path is very focussed on travel between Oughtonhead Way and the town
centre. In reality, cyclists come from and go to many places. What about
Westmill and West Hill, for example?

* There is no provision in Brand Street, but cyclists coming along the path will
probably be encouraged to continue on the pavement there.

Personally, I think I might ditch the entire proposal, and spend the money
instead on a route into the top end of Lower Tilehouse Street, using new toucan
crossings of Paynes Park and Old Park Road, plus an adaptation of Nuns Close.
Cyclists returning from town would need to be exempted from the no right turn at
the end of Sun Street. I'd also signpost a route along Elmside Walk and make it
formally shared use.

By the way, that's completely the opposite side of town from me, so this is not
self-interest ;-)