Cyclists Warn of Hazards on Sydney Fish Market Bike Route
Cyclists are raising alarms about potential hazards on the shared bike path adjacent to the newly opened Sydney Fish Market. This path is a vital cycling route connecting Sydney’s inner west to the city, frequented by hundreds of cyclists each day. However, the decision to design a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists instead of a dedicated cycleway has raised serious concerns about safety.
Concerns over Shared Path Design
Deputy Mayor Jess Miller of the City of Sydney has criticized the design, calling it a “nightmare” for commuters. Cyclists argue that integrating pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicular traffic in such a busy area could lead to accidents.
Advocacy for Separated Cycleways
Miller, alongside other advocates, had consistently urged the state government to incorporate a separated cycleway into the plans. “We were just ignored at every juncture,” she stated, highlighting the ongoing struggle to prioritize bicycle infrastructure.
- The shared bicycle path is viewed as an improvement over cycling in traffic.
- Traffic congestion at the fish market disrupts cyclist commutes.
- Many cyclists prefer the road to avoid pedestrian density.
Government Response and Criticism
Former Liberal transport minister Rob Stokes acknowledged a divide within Transport for NSW, where priorities skewed towards vehicular traffic over active transport options. He emphasized the existence of “powerful vested interests” favoring large transport projects over cycling facilities.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson defended the decision, stating that the shared path was designed to accommodate all users, including pedestrians and cyclists of various abilities. They also mentioned that ongoing monitoring of travel patterns would guide future improvements. The NSW government is following a policy that recommends separated bike lanes in busy areas.
Community Feedback
Locals have voiced their frustrations regarding the shared path. Cyclist Bek Hawkins reported feeling unsafe on her route, citing multiple dangerous pinch points. Others, like Gemma Bassett, prefer cycling on the road due to the inefficiency of navigating through pedestrian traffic.
Peter McLean, chief executive of Bicycle NSW, highlighted the potential cost of retrofitting a dedicated cycle path after construction. He stated, “We have a long way to go before best practice and world-class bicycle infrastructure is rolled out.”
The Road Ahead
As the Sydney Fish Market continues to attract crowds, the urgent need for a safer cycling route remains evident. Local cyclists are hoping that increased advocacy will lead to the implementation of a fully separated cycleway. This would ensure the safety of all road users and promote cycling as a viable transportation option in Sydney.
