Bicycle NSW member and Volunteer Advocate, Werner and friend happened to be on scene to provide assistance to another cyclist. The bicycle rider with a physical disability riding a recumbent bike was blocked by an s-bend of chicanes on a shared South Coast path.
‘The photo was taken some years back and used to highlight the issue to Wollongong City Council, it helped to remove the overly restrictive barriers from the route.’ Werner Steyer
Chicanery. (Photo courtesy of Werner Steyer)
Chicanes are in the bollard family and have a use to indicate a change in traffic conditions- mostly to stop cars intruding. As a rule, they should be wide enough for a double pram or large mobility scooter, but too narrow for a car. The above, narrow configuration was a danger and an obstruction not only to cyclists, but also to people on mobility scooters, prams etc. It is also in breach of the Disability Discrimination Act (1992). Bollards are not advised for cycleways under Austroads Guide to Traffic Design, Walking and Cycling: 6A. which suggests numerous safer alternatives. Thanks Werner for campaigning to have this obstruction removed and thank you Wollongong Council for listening and acting.
‘The ride around Lake Illawarra is an enjoyable 40 km ride on shared paths with a few short sections on road, the section along the Princes Highway has an excellent bike lane shoulder, the ride description and map is on the Kiama BUG website Where to ride | Kiama BUG’ Werner Steyer
If you have a bollard obstructing your local cycleway and creating a hazard, let us know about it by emailing advocacy@bicyclensw.org.au and write to your local council to have it replaced with better alternatives.
