Cyclists call for lane

In a bid to make cycling safer, Peel District Club president Stephen Dodd is calling for better cycle paths in the Rockingham region.

Mr Dodd’s call comes after an Insurance Commission of WA announcement earlier this month, which stated more than $50 million had been paid to riders injured by cars in the past five years.

“My motto is we have to share the road,” he said.

“I’ve been forced off the road and abused by drivers in the past.”

Mr Dodd questioned why a dedicated bike path was not constructed to provide cyclists a safe place to train.

“There will always be accidents,” he said.

“You won’t stop them all, but cycling facilities and bike paths should be considered in the planning of roads.”

Club A-grade rider Glyn Fish, 17, mirrored Mr Dodd’s sentiments.

He said his parents panicked about the dangers he might encounter every time he headed out to train.

“I’ve had a few close calls,” Glyn said.

“I don’t think its good enough not to have dedicated cycle lanes and training facilities down here, especially when it is a growing sport.”

Rockingham City Mayor Barry Sammels said the City’s on and off-road bicycle facilities included paths, lanes, trails and racks around the City, which were continually upgraded and extended.

Cr Sammels said a Rockingham Cycling Facility Feasibility Study was being drafted and would be considered by council in the coming months.

“The City is undertaking planning for the Baldivis District Sports Complex, and this work to date includes the establishment of cycling facilities,” he said.