Plan to ban cyclists from 15-mile stretch of road 'deeply concerning'

British Cycling has labelled proposals to ban cyclists from a stretch of A-road as "deeply concerning" and could set an "extremely dangerous precedent".

Highways England has applied for an order which would prohibit cyclists using a 15-mile stretch of the A63 in Hull.

According to British Cycling, Highways England cited the average speed and traffic density on the stretch of road as reasons for the plans, after six accidents involving cyclists - including one fatality - in the last five years.

In a joint response, British Cycling and Welcome to Yorkshire said they deeply objected to the idea.

British Cycling chief executive Julie Harrington and Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity, said: "Our aim to encourage more people onto their bikes will ultimately lead to our roads becoming less congested, our population becoming healthier and more active, pressure easing on our NHS, and our communities becoming greener.

"Therefore, any move to 'ban' cyclists from any stretch of road is deeply concerning, and directly contradicts the government's Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy... and Highways England's own Cycling Strategy."

The stretch of tarmac is a known time trial course, and was used by Tour de France winner Sir Bradley Wiggins as he attempted to break the 10-mile time trial record in 2015.

Ms Harrington and Mr Verity added: "Any ban imposed on cyclists would have a negative impact on the local economy, as well as people's ability to participate in the sport ahead of a potentially hugely significant year as Yorkshire looks forward to hosting the 2019 UCI Road World Championships.

"If speed and density of traffic was accepted as a reason to ban cycling, cyclists would be banned from the vast majority of our roads. If approved, this approach will set an extremely dangerous precedent."

A public consultation on the plans is open until February 19.