Should Cycling In Pedestrianised Areas Really Be Banned?

It would be hard to disagree, for the most part, with the list of cycling offences that will carry a €40 fine from the end of this month.

They centre largely around stopping at red lights, which is a fairly tough point to argue against – and even the most die-hard cyclists will agree that it’s probably best to discourage cycling across a bridge while it’s being raised. Although that does sound like fun…

One of the offences does, however, seem a little bit out of place: cycling in a pedestrianised area. It’s particularly pertinent in Dublin, where the city centre’s arteries are built around pedestrian walkways – and an extensive facelift will soon convert with much of the area around College Green into a paradise for those on foot.

So no dice for those on two wheels? Personally that seems a little bit unfair, and isn’t really a step in the right direction when it comes to persuading more people to leave their cars at home and hop on a bike.

But then, you could argue that some cyclists take the piss when it comes to pedestrian areas – weaving dangerously, nipping at heels and impatiently knocking walkers aside as they hurry along in a flurry of self-importance.

Either way, would be good to know what you think…