‘Just ridiculous’: 90% of Centennial Park cyclists above 30km/hr speed limit

Ninety per cent of cyclists in Centennial Park are flying down the roadway up to 20km/hr over the speed limit, a Daily Telegraph special investigation has revealed. SEE THE VIDEO.

Cyclists speeding around Centennial Park will be hit with fines after the minister responsible called on police to stop them riding dangerously.

Ninety per cent of cyclists riding in Centennial Park are flying down the roadway at speeds of up to 20km/h over the limit, results from a Daily Telegraph special investigation have revealed.

A survey of the speed of 120 cyclists visiting the parklands between 6am and 9am showed the vast majority of riders travelling over the 30km/h requirement.

Cyclists were found to be zipping down Grand Drive at an average of 34km/h with one speed demon even reaching 50km/h.

The Daily Telegraph observed a number of cyclists overtaking cars driving at the limit, and others not slowing at pedestrian crossings.

The Daily Telegraph clocked cyclists at speeds of up to 50km/h in Centennial Park. Pictures: John Grainger

Cities and Active Transport Minister Rob Stokes revealed he had asked NSW Police to ensure cyclists weren’t riding dangerously.

“Our public parklands are there to be enjoyed safely by everyone. If cyclists aren’t sticking to the posted speed limits, then they should expect to be fined,” he said. “I’ve asked Greater Sydney Parklands to work with NSW Police to ensure that safety compliance is a priority.”

Centennial Park’s Grand Drive has a speed limit of 30km/hr. Picture: John Grainger

A Greater Sydney Parklands spokesperson said they prioritised the safety of all ­visitors to the Centennial Parklands.

“NSW Police and rangers have the power to fine vehicles, including cyclists, for speeding within Centennial Parklands,” they said.

“Cyclists have their own dedicated cycle lane around the 3.6km Grand Drive loop road which has a signposted speed limit of 30km/h.

“Cyclists are required by law to follow this speed limit and give way to pedestrians. There is an on-the-spot infringement of $195 for cyclists found to be speeding.”

The Daily Telegraph visited the parklands between 6am and 9am. Picture: John Grainger

Chairman and chief executive of the Pedestrian Council of Australia Harold Scruby said he believed cyclists were a “protected species” in the community.

“No one wants to enforce the law,” he said.

“It’s just ridiculous.”

Mr Scruby said that even if cyclists were patrolled, it would be difficult to obtain information to fine them, because there were no licence plate or identification requirements for cyclists.

“They (cyclists) just say they’re Walt Disney, address Disneyland,” he said.

Got a news tip? Email [e-mail]