Cambridge Terrace (Madras to Peterborough) - shared cyling and walking path

Here's a good project - consultation over completion of another section of the Avon "boulevard" shared cycling and walking path along Cambridge Terrace between Madras and Peterborough Streets. It is part of an overall street renewal project for this area.

Currently this is a "missing link" in terms of the good quality shared path that exists along the river both before and after this section.  The existing path entrance off the corner of Kimore/ Madras is narrow, rough and not at all obvious. The project should address these issues.   Last year the council also consulted over the extension of the shared path along Cambridge Terrace section between Barbadoes and Fitzgerald.

The only other issues would appear to relate to the need for signage so that people can pick up the path at the Kilmore Madras corner, and also know that the path is part of cycling Route 7 which takes them down the Avon River, and possibly the adequacy of the overall path width (2.5m) - comments on this please!

The consultation pamphlet with a plan showing the proposed path is attached. Submissions closed at 5pm on 26 March.

The following submissionwas sent on behalf of Spokes:

Dear Phillipa

Thanks for the opportunity to comment on this proposal.  Spokes strongly supports the construction of the shared cycling and pedestrian path along this section of Cambridge Terrace.  Improved cycling and walking access along the Avon is consistent with the Avon Master Plan, the recommendations of Council's recently commissioned report by Jan Gehl: "Public Space, Public Life", and "A City for People - Action Plan" that flows from this.  This part of Cambridge Terrace is also an important link on cycling route 7 (Avon City Route).

Spokes considers that the proposed path width of 2.5 metres may not be adequate, particularly if walking and cycling numbers increase in the future, which seems likely as this route is improved.  To "future proof" the path, we suggest that the constructed width be increased to 3m.  It is also important to ensure that street furniture, signage and the fronts of parked cars do not "clutter" the shared path, as has occurred on the sections of the Avon promenade on Oxford Street between Manchester and Madras Street, and also opposite the Strip between the Bridge of Remembrance and Lichfield Street.

The "Give Way" at the intersection of Peterborough Street and Cambridge Terrace for traffic turning left into Peterborough Street, or continuing straight ahead, is supported.  This corner is "blind" for cyclists and motorists entering Cambridge Terrace from Peterborough Street.

The entrance to the existing river side path at the Madras/ Kilmore intersection (next to 318 Madras Street) is currently somewhat obscure, and easily missed. The upgraded path entrance should be clearly signposted (including the cycle route name and number) and made inviting for users, with sufficient space for cyclists and walkers travelling up river and waiting to cross Madras or Kilmore Streets.

The crossing of Madras and Kilmore Streets to link up the river side path sections along Oxford Street and Cambridge Terrace is tortuous and confusing, and presents a barrier for walkers and cyclists.  It would be helpful if a more direct crossing could be provided as part of this project, or possibly the Madras St street renewal project.  Possible solutions might include a "barn dance" crossing at the Madras/ Kilmore intersection, or underpasses under the Madras and Kilmore Street bridges over the Avon. Improved directional signage should also be provided.

Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries, or require further information.

Yours sincerely

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes