Cycling rules: Call to ban bikes on Esplanade; Mt Martha, Safety Beach
Cyclists love the scenic route between Mt Martha and Safety Beach. Motorists say the road is too dangerous to share. What do you think?
South East
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Frustrated motorists want cycling restricted on a scenic stretch along Port Phillip Bay.
Close to 200 people have called for changes to bike access to the Esplanade between Mount Martha and Safety Beach.
That stretch of the narrow, winding, single lane road has double lines that prohibit a motorist from legally overtaking another vehicle or cyclist.
No restrictions on cycling are in place along the Esplanade and the route is hugely popular on weekends.
A Leader poll has revealed overwhelming demand for cycling to be restricted or even banned along parts of the Esplanade.
Of the 193 poll respondents 183 wanted cycling restricted.
“The road is too narrow. Very dangerous coming around bends especially if there is a group of cyclists,” Julie Sykes said.
Robert Edwards said it was unsafe for motorists to pass cyclists for several kilometres resulting in a “freight train building behind you causing impatience, frustration, aggression, and ultimately road rage”.
Some respondents suggested scheduling times for cyclists to use the road or only allowing bikes along the Esplanade for special events.
Not everyone was in favour of restricting cyclists.
Travis Jones said he rode and drove along the strip regularly and 95 per cent of drivers were “courteous and safe”.
“In 15 years of riding there I think the longest I have held up a driver would be 30-60 seconds when they are unsure about being able to pass me.
“As far as restrictions, it was fantastic several times over the last 10 years when the esplanade was closed to cars due to road works and cars were diverted to Nepean Hwy.”
The Esplanade is an arterial road and managed by the State Government.
The Department of Transport wouldn’t be drawn on the possibility of changing cycling access to the road, not would it detail how the community could address safety concerns.
In a written statement a spokesman said all road users had a responsibility to ensure roads remained safe.
“We urge all road users to share the road safely, be patient and give each other space,” he said.
Mornington Peninsula Shire is working on a RideSafe Strategy to help increase cycling by creating a safe, connected and low stress cycling network that “respected the needs of all users”.
It is expected to be adopted by the council later this year.
Acting Team Leader Traffic and Transport Carolyn Lindsey said any decisions about the Esplanade would rest with the State Government.
