This is an abridged version of a letter in reply as to regarding cycles using the Bridgewater canal towpath from my local MP.
26/July/1995.
At the last meeting of the Bridgewater Canal Trust a decision was made to prohibit the use of cycles on the towpath. The issues involved with this decision are as follows:
(a) Safety
(b) Public Liability
(c) Public footpaths/towpaths
(a) Safety
Whenever people are in close proximity to water, safety must be of prime concern:
(i) The towpath was not constructed and is not maintained as a cycleway and was not designed as such.
(ii) Uneven, slippery surfaces and depressions in the towpath surface that may at times be filled with rainwater all present potential hazards to cyclists.
(iii) Low headroom, i.e. bridges, overhanging trees, branches etc. present hazards to cyclists.
(iv) Equipment used by boaters and fishermen which may at times partially obstruct the towpath causing potential hazards to cyclists.
(v) The width of towpath often less than 2 metres.
(vi) The towpath is unlit during darkness/poor light conditions
(vii) With an increase in the number of cyclists using the towpath this has increased the risk to other members of the public using the same facility e.g. pedestrians, anglers, boat owners, and cyclists themselves.
(b) Public Liability
To continue to ignore the increasing use of cycles on the Bridgewater Canal Towpath could increase the Trusts potential liability in respect of claims for personal injury and/or damage to property. Such claims could become a major drain on the finances of the Trust.
In addition the Company may have a duty of care to members of the public who with its authority make use of its towpath, land and canal. The Company is under no obligation to provide facilities for cyclists and cannot accept liability for cyclists who have no rights to use the towpath.
(c) Public Footpath/Towpath
Sections of towpath are actually designated public footpaths. Cycling is not permitted on a public footpath, a right on foot only is permissible.
The remaining sections of towpath not defined as public footpaths are private over which the Company permits public access on foot only (with exemptions only given in specifically approved circumstances).
This is an abridged version of a letter I received after making enquiries about the use of cycles along the Brigewater Canal in 1995.
Laws and rules might have changed, But it might give an insight as to how and why decisions are made.